Hajiya Fatima Ahmed Aliyu, wife of the Sokoto State Governor, convened a stakeholders' meeting to improve access to government support programmes for grassroots women. She stated the meeting aimed to refine strategies so rural women benefit more effectively from existing interventions. Since the current administration took office, her office has launched several initiatives targeting women's welfare, including food and cash distributions to widows, elderly women, and vulnerable groups. Hundreds of women farmers have received training in modern farming techniques and financial support, while unemployed women have been trained in trades like baking, knitting, pomade and perfume production, and hairdressing.
Under the SOSMEDA initiative, thousands of women have received grants to start or expand businesses, fostering self-reliance. Skills acquisition programmes led by SOSMEDA, the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, and the Ministry for Local Government Affairs have trained many women and youths. Hajiya Fatima credited Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his backing of programmes supporting the needy, persons with disabilities, and internally displaced persons. The meeting included Hajiya Aisha Idris, wife of the Deputy Governor, Hajiya Farida Tukur Bala, wife of the Speaker, Sa'adatu Shagari, and other political and community figures. Hajiya Rabi Tudun Wada, State APC Women Leader, praised the governor's wife and urged local women leaders to ensure benefits reach rural women.
