Women and Social Development Minister, Sadiya Umar Farouq, says revenue from the sale of alcoholic beverages and cigarettes should be channeled to women’s healthcare

Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has proposed that a portion of taxation on items such as alcoholic drinks and cigarettes be allocated towards healthcare services for women, particularly in rural areas, to help reduce mortality rates. Speaking during her inaugural media meeting in Abuja, she emphasized the need to tax products like alcohol and cigarettes, with at least one percent of the generated revenue directed towards improving healthcare services for women.

Kennedy-Ohanenye outlined her goals for the first 100 days in her new role. She plans to enhance access to healthcare services and farming opportunities for rural women. The minister also intends to provide skill training to women across the six geopolitical zones, ultimately improving their quality of life and contributing to the country’s GDP. She also hopes to address issues like street begging and insecurity.

Her agenda includes empowering women, offering skills training, and fostering a cycle of empowerment by encouraging trainees to teach at least 10 other people. The training programs will be initiated in the six geopolitical zones, starting with states chosen through a voting process. If these goals are achieved within the first 100 days, she aims to secure materials for the trained individuals to apply their newfound skills, with the condition that each trainee helps empower 10 others.

Kennedy-Ohanenye’s focus is on motivating women, equipping them with skills, and safeguarding their children, utilizing the authority she has been given to fulfill these roles by President Tinubu.

Edited By Damilola Adeleke