ENUGU – Oji River Urban Women Association has urged government at all levels to intensify effort in women empowerment in order to reduce unemployment rate in the country.

Mrs Blessing Alaeke, the Project Coordinator of the Association stated this during the close out meeting with the community women to mark the end of the women voice leadership project (WVL).

Mrs Aneke who lamented the rate of unemployed youth and women said the only solution to curb crime and violence in the society is to empower women and youth with useful skills.

On the WVL, she said the project which lasted for five years was in partnership with Women aid collective (Wacol), Action aid Nigeria and Global Affairs Canada.

The aim of the project according to her was to reach out to women and girls in grass roots to reduce poverty by encouraging self-reliance through skill training and empowerment.

“The program was also to sensitize women and youth on their rights as a citizen, creating awareness on Gender base violence especially against women, inclusion of women in leadership/ political participation and strengthening organizations financially for sustainability,” he said

“The close out meeting was held to inform our community women that the project has come to an end and to discuss the way forward for were expected to continue the program,” Mrs Aneke said

Also, the executive director of the association, Mrs Chinyere Ugwu commended Women aid collective (Wacol), Action aid Nigeria and Global Affairs Canada.