Yola: The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) has successfully disbursed over ?1 trillion in empowerment interventions since 2015, with a noteworthy 62% of these funds directly benefiting women. This announcement was made by DBN's Managing Director, Mr. Tobi Okparachi, during an empowerment programme for women held in Yola. Representing Okparachi at the event was Mr. Idris Salihu, the bank's Head of Corporate Services.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the DBN, in collaboration with the Organisation for Environmental, Agricultural and Health Development (OEAHD), has provided training to 200 women across the 21 local government areas of Adamawa. The programme, themed 'Empowering Women through Entrepreneurship for Economic Inclusion,' aims to foster gender empowerment, economic inclusion, and financial independence among women.

Okparachi highlighted that the initiative focuses on enhancing women's access to finance for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The training is designed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and tools to transition from financial exclusion to financial inclusion. He emphasized that empowering women is crucial as they play a significant role in economic growth and community wellbeing, and that the initiative seeks to strengthen their capacity for financial independence and economic productivity.

The DBN Chief further explained that a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework has been established to assess the impact and sustainability of businesses created through the programme. Mrs. Tabitha Sallah, President of OEAHD, also spoke at the event, stating that the training covered practical skills in agriculture, environmental sustainability, health services, and entrepreneurship. She described the initiative as an investment in the future, aimed at bridging the gender gap in economic opportunities.

Mrs. Neido Kofulto, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, praised the initiative, calling it timely and essential. She urged participants to utilize the training seriously and apply the acquired skills to improve their livelihoods and contribute to community growth.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Christiana Filibus, a physically challenged participant, expressed her appreciation for the opportunity. She committed to applying the knowledge gained, particularly in business registration, marketing, and regulatory compliance. She noted the invaluable professional advice received from agencies such as the CAC, NAFDAC, and BOI, and expressed her commitment to registering and formalizing businesses for sustained growth.