By Abel Leonard, Lafia

In a strategic push to empower Nasarawa State’s vulnerable women, the Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN), with the support of the Ford Foundation, has completed a comprehensive three-day training aimed at equipping women with skills in gemstone processing, salt production, and related mining industries. Organized in collaboration with the Nasarawa State Ministry of Women Affairs, the training was part of an initiative focused on helping survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) achieve economic independence.

Dr. Engr. Janet Adeyemi, President of WIMIN, highlighted the program’s significance in building a sustainable livelihood for these women. “This initiative is about more than training,” she explained. “It’s about fostering resilience, financial independence, and breaking barriers for women in a traditionally male-dominated industry.”

The training also marked the inauguration of a newly re-opened shelter in Nasarawa, designed to support SGBV survivors. Dr. Adeyemi noted, “The shelter offers more than safety; it provides a foundation for women to start anew, equipping them with the skills to sustain themselves and contribute meaningfully to the mining sector.”

Focus on Inclusivity and Localized Mineral Processing

The program included hands-on training in gemstone faceting, polishing, and sorting, illustrating WIMIN’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women in mining. Dr. Adeyemi emphasized, “Our aim is to not only involve women in mining but to position them as leaders within this sector. We want to ensure that the economic benefits stay within our communities.”

Dr. Adeyemi also shared success stories from previous training programs, remarking, “Women trained in these skills are now financially independent, supporting their families through small businesses in gemstone and salt production.”

State Government Applauds Initiative

Nasarawa State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Hajiya Aisha Rufa’l Ibrahim, commended the initiative’s impact on both economic growth and social empowerment for women. “The collaboration between WIMIN, Ford Foundation, and the state government is transformative,” she stated. “It’s uplifting women and providing them with the tools they need to become economically self-sufficient.”

Hajiya Rufa’l acknowledged Governor Abdullahi Sule’s ongoing support for industrial development in the state, adding, “The commitment to local processing has ensured that the benefits of our natural resources remain here, creating jobs and empowering communities.”

Combatting Gender-Based Violence Through Awareness

WIMIN also introduced an educational booklet on gender-based violence and available resources for women in mining communities. Dr. Adeyemi described it as a vital tool for safeguarding women’s rights. “This handbook is designed to educate women about their rights and provide resources for reporting any issues they may face,” she explained.

Segun Tomori, a representative from Ford Foundation, emphasized the organization’s dedication to women’s safety and empowerment, saying, “We’re committed to creating an environment where women not only succeed in mining but are protected from gender-based violence.”

Participants Speak on Their New Skills

For participants like Maryam Ibrahim, the training has been transformative. “I had no knowledge of gemstone processing before this program,” she shared. “Now, I’m equipped to start a business, and I’m grateful for the chance to support my family.” Another trainee, Grace Musa, noted, “This training has shown me that women can have a significant impact in mining, and I’m ready to make my mark.”

New Leadership for WIMIN in Nasarawa

During the event, WIMIN inaugurated its Nasarawa State chapter, with Dr. Rhoda Idakunla, a seasoned mining expert, appointed as president. Dr. Idakunla expressed her vision for the chapter, saying, “We look forward to driving positive change and opening more doors for women in the mining industry.”

This partnership between WIMIN and Ford Foundation marks a milestone in empowering women in Nasarawa, transforming their lives through skills that bridge the gap between vulnerability and economic independence.