Hauwa Ali
Women in Rivers State are at the forefront of the Federal Government’s newly launched “Earn From the Soil” project. This initiative, aimed at empowering women in agriculture, is seen as a significant effort to diversify Nigeria’s economy away from oil dependence and towards a sustainable future through farming.
The project is part of the Women’s Economic Empowerment Policy, which recognises women’s untapped potential in driving agricultural productivity. By involving women, the government hopes to leverage their numbers and dedication to revitalise the agriculture sector and contribute to food security.
While oil remains Nigeria’s leading revenue generator, the success of projects like “Earn From the Soil” could signal a shift towards agriculture as a viable alternative. For organisers, the essential lies in agriculture’s capacity to surpass oil in terms of economic impact, provided the necessary support and investment are made.
The women participating in the program have expressed their readiness to embrace this opportunity. They see the potential for long-term benefits not only for themselves but also for the economy. However, they emphasise the need for more incentives and support to maximise their contributions.
With the project set to expand across six states in the South-South geopolitical zone, “Earn From the Soil” represents a broader movement toward creating new economic pathways for women while addressing pressing national concerns like food inflation and unemployment. As these women take on leadership roles in agriculture, they are poised to become key players in Nigeria’s quest for economic transformation.
