In a strategic move to combat financial exclusion and uplift women-led enterprises, 1,500 women entrepreneurs in Kaduna have received free health insurance, debit cards, and access to essential business support services through a new empowerment initiative.
The programme, spearheaded by a fintech company and unveiled under the theme “Passing the Baton”, is designed to provide financial literacy and digital tools to women operating in the informal sector. According to the company’s Head of Communication and Marketing, the initiative is part of a broader commitment to strengthening women’s economic participation and resilience.
“We’re empowering 1,500 women with financial literacy, one month of free health insurance, a debit card, and other vital tools to help scale their businesses,” he said during the launch of the initiative.
The women will enjoy one month of free healthcare, with the option to continue the coverage for just ₦500 monthly through a partnership with a major insurance provider. The entire initiative is supported by a digital platform aimed at making financial services more accessible to low-income and informal traders.
Highlighting the motivation behind the project, he revealed that the company’s internal research showed significant gaps in both financial literacy and digital finance adoption among market women. “Our findings show people are willing to embrace digital solutions, but many lack the knowledge to use them effectively. That’s why this programme brings the training directly to them.”
Beyond healthcare and access to debit cards, participants will also benefit from free money transfers and guidance to navigate digital financial platforms confidently.
“Women are economic powerhouses,” he said. “Supporting them means supporting families and communities. That’s why we’re starting with women, and from there we’ll expand to youth and other underserved groups.”
The initiative has already started making an impact, with several beneficiaries expressing deep gratitude. Mrs. Josephine Igwe and Daharatu Abdulkadir described the support as timely and crucial, especially given the current economic hardships faced by many informal traders.
This initiative not only tackles immediate business and health needs but also signals a larger shift towards inclusive financial practices in Nigeria, particularly for women in underserved regions.
