In Nigeria, women and girls face numerous obstacles that hinder their socioeconomic progress, particularly in the informal sector. According to data from Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), women comprise a significant portion of the informal workforce. Indeed, they often lack access to essential benefits such as health care, pensions and financial services. This makes them more vulnerable to economic shocks and limits their ability to grow their businesses or secure stable incomes.

Furthermore, the gender gap in education remains a pressing issue, with many young girls unable to complete secondary education due to cultural norms, early marriage and financial hardship. This lack of education directly affects their ability to secure formal employment, further entrenching cycles of poverty. The situation is particularly dire in rural areas, where access to education and health care is limited, making it difficult for women and girls to escape poverty.

GAF’s Innovative Solutions and Interventions 

The Grace Agbonlahor Foundation (GAF) is a nongovernmental organization (NGO) dedicated to equipping women and girls in Nigeria with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive. GAF addresses the challenges Nigerian women face through two core programs: the MarketCare program and the Girls in Career Boost (GCB) program.

The MarketCare Program

Inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of Madam Grace Agbonlahor, this program focuses on empowering market women. It offers:

• Financial Literacy Training: Program participants receive basic financial education to help them manage and grow their businesses.
• Health Education and Insurance: GAF provides affordable health insurance and essential health education to participants.
• Cash Grants: The program offers participants with cash grants to support their businesses and improve their financial resilience.

The GCB Program

The GCB program introduces young girls to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields, providing:

• Mentorship from female STEM professionals who guide and inspire girls to pursue non-traditional careers.
• Hands-on workshops that equip girls with the skills needed to excel in STEM subjects and career fields. This program helps bridge the gender gap in education by encouraging more girls to explore STEM careers and access higher education opportunities.

Impacts and Success Stories

Although GAF is still in its early stages, the MarketCare Program has already enrolled 33 women in its pilot phase. Through partnerships with WellaHealth and First Choice Investment, the program provides women with health education, access to affordable health insurance, financial literacy training and cash grants to boost their businesses. This holistic approach empowers women to achieve financial independence and better health outcomes for themselves and their families.

The GCB program recently launched its foundation phase. At least 10 young girls aged 10-14 will be enrolled in the first cycle of STEM training and mentorship. With support from MidTown Tech Hub and GCB ambassadors (volunteer STEM mentors), these girls will receive tailored mentorship, hands-on training and educational support to inspire them to pursue careers in STEM fields.

Conclusion

The Grace Agbonlahor Foundation is making a tangible difference in the lives of women and girls in Nigeria. Through financial literacy, health education and career mentorship programs, GAF is helping to break the cycle of poverty and promote gender equality. By equipping women and girls with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed, the organization is fostering sustainable development in some of Nigeria’s most underserved communities.

– Staff Report
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