Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, a leading construction company, has demonstrated its commitment to community development by empowering 200 women in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with essential tools to enhance their economic independence. This initiative, a cornerstone of the company’s corporate social responsibility program, provided beneficiaries with a range of equipment, including manual and industrial sewing machines, grinding machines, hair dryers, and gas cookers. The empowerment program, coinciding with the month’s focus on celebrating women, aligns seamlessly with Julius Berger’s dedication to fostering economic inclusion and driving positive social impact beyond its core construction activities. The initiative has garnered widespread praise from beneficiaries, government officials, and community stakeholders, reinforcing the company’s reputation as a responsible corporate citizen invested in the nation’s progress.
The empowerment program, held in the Garki area of the FCT, was lauded by Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, the FCT Mandate Secretary for Women Affairs, who commended Julius Berger’s consistent prioritization of women’s empowerment and its significant contributions to national development. She highlighted the company’s impressive track record in delivering critical infrastructure projects, citing the International Conference Centre, completed in a remarkable six months, as a testament to its efficiency and commitment. Dr. Benjamins-Laniyi also acknowledged Julius Berger’s ongoing road projects, emphasizing their consistent delivery ahead of schedule, further solidifying the company’s reputation for excellence and reliability in the construction sector.
Aina Sanni, Director of the Women Development Department, echoed these sentiments, describing the initiative as a significant milestone for the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat. Expressing profound gratitude for Julius Berger’s partnership, Sanni underscored the importance of sustaining this collaborative effort to continue empowering women and fostering economic growth within the community. The initiative serves as a powerful example of the positive impact that can be achieved through public-private partnerships, leveraging the resources and expertise of both sectors to address critical societal needs and promote sustainable development.
Shakira Mustapha, Julius Berger’s Chief Risk Officer, reiterated the company’s unwavering dedication to community development, emphasizing the transformative power of women’s empowerment. She eloquently articulated the ripple effect of such initiatives, stating, “When you empower a woman, you empower her family, her community, and ultimately, the nation.” This statement encapsulates the core philosophy driving Julius Berger’s social responsibility efforts, highlighting the company’s belief in the interconnectedness of individual empowerment and societal progress. Mustapha further explained that the partnership with the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat directly aligns with the company’s vision for economic inclusion, aiming to provide women with the means to generate income, support their families, and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth.
The beneficiaries of the empowerment program expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the support received, emphasizing the transformative impact of the initiative on their lives and livelihoods. Patricia Amos, one of the recipients, conveyed her excitement and appreciation, acknowledging the hope instilled by Julius Berger’s generosity. Another beneficiary, overwhelmed with emotion, expressed profound gratitude, blessing the company and wishing it continued success. These testimonials underscore the tangible impact of the program, providing women with not only the tools but also the encouragement and belief in their ability to achieve economic independence.
In conclusion, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc’s women empowerment initiative in the FCT exemplifies the company’s commitment to social impact beyond its construction activities. By providing 200 women with essential tools and resources, the company has taken a significant step towards fostering economic inclusion and empowering women to become self-reliant entrepreneurs. This initiative not only strengthens the local economy but also reinforces Julius Berger’s role as a responsible corporate citizen deeply invested in the well-being and progress of the communities it serves. The positive feedback from beneficiaries and government officials further validates the effectiveness of the program and highlights the potential for future collaborations to continue empowering women and driving sustainable development in the FCT and beyond. The company’s dedication to community development, coupled with its commitment to excellence in its core business, positions Julius Berger as a valuable partner in nation-building, contributing not only to infrastructure development but also to the social and economic empowerment of Nigerian citizens.
