Outcome NGA_D_2.2

By 2027, Nigeria benefits from improved food security and nutrition, sustainable food systems, and natural resources management

A significant focus has been placed on enhancing the gender governance architecture to ensure gender accountability across both government and private sectors. This coordinated approach integrates gender equality into policies and programs, fostering sustainable development while addressing systemic inequalities. UN Women has played a pivotal role in scaling up the capacities of women-owned and women-led businesses across the country. In Kaduna State, 200 women received business and economic kits to support their ventures amidst challenging economic conditions. Additionally, under the affirmative procurement initiative, 183 women were trained—both virtually and in person—to help them navigate procurement opportunities effectively. In Bauchi State, women in the rice value chain were provided with processing machines, boosting their productivity in two communities. In Bayelsa State, rural women have benefited from modern food processing technology, and plans are underway to distribute fertilizers and cassava stems to 300 women farmers whose livelihoods were devastated by the 2024 floods. A new processing center, developed in partnership with the Bayelsa Government, is set to launch in January 2025. Meanwhile, in Ebonyi State, 250 rural women farmers received rice seeds and fertilizers, enhancing food security and economic resilience in the region.

By 2027, Nigeria benefits from improved food security and nutrition, sustainable food systems, and natural resources management

In 2023, the CO faced limitations in implementing interventions for a particular indicator due to constrained resources. Despite this challenge, the CO actively engaged with various donors to mobilize funds for the agriculture sector. Notably, a comprehensive climate-smart agriculture program was developed in collaboration with the African Development Bank, which is currently being considered as a potential donor. Recognizing the government's role as a regulator, the CO worked at both national and sub-national levels to advocate for affirmative procurement reforms. At the national level, technical support was provided to develop Nigeria's inaugural Women Economic Empowerment Policy. This policy, including affirmative procurement as a key driver of economic empowerment, received approval from the president. A high-level advisory council, with UN Women as the secretariat, was established. Additionally, at the subnational level, the Kaduna State Government drafted an affirmative procurement policy with a specific quota for women-owned businesses. In Lagos State, gender-responsive procurement clauses were included in procurement regulations and guidelines. However, approval of these documents is pending with the respective state governors, with delays attributed to the general elections and changes in government in 2023. Furthermore, the CO conducted gender-responsive assessments of the mining and maritime sectors in Nigeria, aiming to identify specific gender lens policies for advancing gender equality and women's empowerment in these sectors. Additionally, the CO developed project documents focusing on specific agriculture value chains showing significant potential for advancing gender equality and empowering women in agriculture. These initiatives are strategically designed to maximize their positive impact. Lastly, in response to the removal of fuel subsidies in Nigeria and the growing demand for alternative energy sources, the CO initiated a successful pilot program on biogas. There is now interest from potential donors willing to support the scaling up of this initiative in 2024.