Mary Noel-Berje leads state chapter as association unveils plans for enterprise development, financial literacy and sustainable livelihoods across Niger State’s 25 LGAs.
By Chioma Vivian James
The Business Women of Influence Renewed Hope Association (BWI-RHA), Niger State Chapter, has inaugurated its executive council in Minna, marking a significant step towards expanding women’s economic opportunities and promoting grassroots development across the state.
The inaugural meeting brought together women entrepreneurs, community leaders and development stakeholders to formalise the chapter’s leadership structure, establish its operational framework and outline strategies for advancing women’s economic empowerment in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
In her welcome address, the State Secretary, Vicky Alkali, said the association was established to provide targeted socioeconomic support and relief to vulnerable groups across Niger State’s 25 Local Government Areas.
Alkali described the inauguration as an opportunity for businesswomen to unite around a shared vision of economic inclusion, community development and support for disadvantaged populations.
She also pledged transparent administration, effective documentation and accountable governance in the implementation of the association’s programmes and interventions.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Niger State Coordinator of BWI-RHA and Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affirmative Action, Mrs. Mary Noel-Berje, described the association as a platform for long-term economic transformation rather than a short-term political initiative.
She said BWI-RHA was committed to fostering unity, strengthening female entrepreneurship and creating sustainable opportunities for women to improve their livelihoods.
According to Noel-Berje, the association’s mandate extends beyond political considerations to building an enduring institution capable of delivering measurable economic benefits to women across Niger State.
She stressed that empowering women economically would contribute significantly to household stability, community development and the broader growth of society.
Outlining the chapter’s strategic priorities, Noel-Berje said the association would promote practical business development workshops across the state’s three senatorial districts to equip women entrepreneurs with relevant skills and knowledge.
Other planned interventions include facilitating micro-investment opportunities, promoting financial literacy, strengthening business networks and supporting women operating in the informal sector.
The association also plans to engage trade associations, professional bodies and rural business owners while building partnerships with government agencies, financial institutions and non-governmental organisations to expand access to economic opportunities.
A major highlight of the event was the formal inauguration of the executive council. Barrister Mariam Kolo administered the Oath of Allegiance to Noel-Berje and the 25 Local Government Area Coordinators, officially ushering them into their respective leadership responsibilities.
The inauguration established the chapter’s leadership structure and provided an institutional foundation for coordinating programmes and mobilising women across the state.
With its executive council inaugurated and strategic framework outlined, the BWI-RHA Niger State Chapter is expected to commence grassroots outreach and capacity-building initiatives in the coming weeks.
The chapter’s success will ultimately depend on its ability to translate its empowerment agenda into practical opportunities, stronger enterprises and improved economic prospects for women, particularly those in rural communities and the informal sector.
