Women leaders involved in the FG/IFAD Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) call for stronger government support for farming and urgent steps to curb child trafficking and early marriage in Niger State. They speak during a capacity-building event for women, youth and persons with disabilities in Bida, urging more direct engagement with government officials.
Organizers and participants say the training focuses on improving networks’ ability to advocate and influence decisions. They report that some authorities respond to advocacy efforts, while others are difficult to reach. The women also call for closer collaboration between government agencies and community stakeholders to protect vulnerable girls and to push for policy and resource allocation changes. Representatives and a gender mainstreaming officer describe the programme as including tools to engage decision-makers.
Across the reports, the main differences are emphasis rather than substance: one outlet highlights the need for “constructive engagement” beyond raising concerns, while the other summarizes the same priorities—agriculture support, anti-trafficking measures, and action against early marriage.
