What if the next five years could redefine women’s economic future in Cross River State?

That conversation has begun at the Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership (RWVL) Nigeria Project Steering Committee meeting convened by GADA in Cross River State. Government, civil society, and development partners gathered to explore sustainable value chains and position women for long-term economic growth.

The meeting marked a significant milestone in the implementation of GADA’s Women’s Economic Empowerment, Leadership and Trade intervention under the RWVL Nigeria Project. It provided a collaborative platform for stakeholders to shape the strategic direction of the project and strengthen partnerships that will drive women’s economic inclusion over the next five years.

This time around, we are going to prioritize economic and financial stability. We want women-owned businesses to thrive long after the project ends”— Niri Goyit, Actionaid Nigeria.

Through productive discussions, brainstorming and co-creation, partners examined value chains with the potential to strengthen women-owned enterprises, expand market access, improve long-term profitability, and position women to participate in local and international markets.

Furthermore, the meeting provided a platform to adopt the Steering Committee’s Terms of Reference and inaugurate the State Project Steering Committee. A major outcome of the meeting was the decision to commission robust research on priority value chains to identify the most profitable, scalable and sustainable opportunities. The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Edema Irom, was inaugurated as Chairperson of the State Project Steering Committee, while the Executive Director,EINGA (Obudu)-Helen Ogar emerged as Deputy Chairperson, with GADA serving as the Secretariat.

As implementation progresses, GADA will continue to work closely with government agencies, civil society, the private sector, and community stakeholders to create an enabling environment where women-owned businesses can grow, compete, and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economic development.

Whether you are a policymaker, development partner, private sector actor, or community champion, there is a role for you. Create opportunities, advocate for inclusive policies, and be part of building an ecosystem where women-led enterprises can thrive.

Together, we can turn today’s commitments into tomorrow’s lasting impact.