No fewer than 43,928 vulnerable women across the 17 local government areas of Yobe State are set to benefit from a share investment programme funded by Governor Mai Mala Buni and the Dangote Foundation.
The initiative follows the fulfilment of financial commitments by both parties before the October 27 deadline, paving the way for the beneficiaries to participate in the Dangote Group’s Initial Public Offering (IPO).
Under the arrangement, each woman is expected to receive 20 shares, providing them with an opportunity to participate in investment and long-term wealth creation.
The programme targets widows, orphans, economically disadvantaged women and families affected by conflict, with the aim of improving financial inclusion, strengthening household income and creating sustainable economic opportunities.
The Secretary to the Yobe State Government, Dr Mohammed Goje, announced the development, describing it as an important step towards improving the economic conditions of vulnerable residents.
Goje explained that the initiative was designed to go beyond immediate financial assistance by giving beneficiaries access to an investment opportunity capable of generating long-term economic benefits for their families.
He traced the programme to an initiative proposed by Governor Buni during the 81st United Nations General Assembly, noting that the vision had now translated into a practical intervention covering thousands of women across the state.
According to the SSG, the fulfilment of the financial commitments by Buni and Aliko Dangote before the agreed deadline reflects their commitment to ensuring that the programme moves beyond promises to actual implementation.
He added that the scheme was intended to reduce economic vulnerability among women by allowing them to participate in investment and wealth creation.
Goje also noted that improving the financial position of vulnerable women could have wider benefits for families and communities, particularly through better household welfare and increased economic stability.
While acknowledging that the returns from the investment may take time to materialise, he expressed optimism that the initiative would provide beneficiaries with an opportunity to build a more secure financial future.
He said the programme aligns with the Buni administration’s focus on social protection, inclusive governance and sustainable development, particularly for residents whose livelihoods have been affected by poverty and conflict.
With the October 27 payment deadline met, the initiative has reached a major implementation milestone, bringing 43,928 vulnerable women in Yobe State closer to participating in the Dangote share investment programme.
