The Nigeria for Women Project (NFWP) is a federal government and World Bank partnership designed to strengthen economic opportunities, livelihoods, and social capital for women in targeted Nigerian communities. If you’re an economically active woman in rural or semi-urban areas, this programme gives you access to training, group savings, financial literacy, and opportunities to improve your business or farming activities — all free of charge.
👉 Register here: https://nfwp.gov.ng/register/
What the Program Is
The Nigeria for Women Project supports improved livelihoods for women by building Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) — community-based collectives where members learn, save, and work together. The initiative addresses structural barriers that limit women’s economic productivity and access to resources.
This project connects women with training, financial skills, community support, and partnerships that help reduce poverty, increase savings, and grow small enterprises. Its design draws on successful models like the Rural Livelihoods Project in India.
Who Can Join (Eligibility & Target Groups)
According to the official programme information:
- Women aged 18 and above
- Residents in eligible rural or semi-urban communities
- Women engaged in subsistence economic activities such as small-scale trading, farming or informal business
- Participation does not require payment — it’s free
Becoming part of a Women Affinity Group (WAG) gives women the structure to access training and support together.
What You Get (Benefits & Support)
Training & Skills Development
The project provides entrepreneurship skills, financial literacy, market-responsive training, and life skills to help women improve existing businesses or start new ones.
Social & Financial Capital
Women join small groups (WAGs) that build social strength, share information, save collectively, and may internally mobilise resources. This group dynamic has helped many participants increase their savings and access credit-like opportunities.
Better Access to Markets & Collaboration
By engaging in groups, women can collaborate on business opportunities, explore cooperatives, and strengthen collective negotiation power.
Project Support & Partnerships
The project fosters connections with local partners, government units, and organisations to expand access to services and broader development support.
How It Works
The NFWP model is built around four key approaches:
- Building Social Capital — Women form affinity groups (WAGs) that serve as platforms for training and collective action.
- Livelihoods Programmes — Skills and business support are tailored to local market needs.
- Innovation & Partnerships — The project links new ideas and partners with women’s economic activities.
- Project Management & Learning — Progress and performance are monitored to improve results and impact.
This multi-faceted approach aims to help women sustainably grow their skills and income potential.
Impact So Far
- The original NFWP supported hundreds of thousands of women across six states in Nigeria — including Ogun, Abia, Kebbi, Niger, Taraba and Edo.
- Women Affinity Groups saved and managed millions in collective funds, offering local lending and financial inclusion opportunities.
- Many members now have bank accounts, improved savings habits, and stronger economic agency.
These results highlight how community-driven support can strengthen women’s economic roles and resilience.
How to Join (Steps to Register)
- Visit the official portal:
👉 https://nfwp.gov.ng/register/ - Create an account: Provide your name, email, and basic details to register.
- Get involved with your local WAG:
After registration, you’ll be informed about how to join or form a Women Affinity Group in your community. - Participate in training and activities:
Once part of a WAG, you can access training, savings schemes, mentorship and peer support.
For additional support, contact the project office via the email listed on the website.
Helpful Application Tips
- Engage community leaders: Local leaders and ward facilitators often assist women in forming or joining WAGs.
- Show your current activity: Being engaged in small business or agricultural work helps with group participation.
- Visit your LGA project coordinator: Many implementations start locally with support from sub-national partners.
