The International Development Association (IDA) is advancing human capital development in Nigeria through a wide range of initiatives focused on adolescent girls and women. These programs aim to expand education, improve health and nutrition, strengthen economic inclusion, and enhance social protection. Together, they are reshaping opportunities for millions of girls and women and supporting Nigeria’s broader development goals.
The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) is improving access to quality secondary education for girls across 18 states. It promotes safe learning environments, digital literacy, life skills, and scholarships. The initiative has already supported more than 4 million girls, with plans to reach 15 million by 2028, contributing to reduced gender disparities and better economic prospects.
The Nigeria for Women Program (NFWP) empowers women economically by organizing them into Women Affinity Groups that promote savings, skills training, and access to credit. Since 2019, over one million women have benefited, gaining improved livelihoods, financial independence, and leadership opportunities within their communities.
Health initiatives such as IMPACT and ANRiN focus on reducing child and maternal mortality by strengthening immunization systems, malaria prevention, and nutrition services. These programs have reached millions of mothers and children, improving access to life-saving interventions and reducing malnutrition and stunting in targeted states.
Social protection programs, including NASSP-SU and NG-CARES, provide safety nets for poor and vulnerable households. Digital cash transfers, livelihood grants, and food security support have helped tens of millions of Nigerians withstand economic shocks, with women comprising the vast majority of cash transfer recipients. These initiatives have strengthened resilience, boosted economic recovery, and supported small-scale farmers and entrepreneurs.
Recent results highlight the transformative impact of these efforts. Improved school infrastructure, scholarships, and digital skills training have led to increased enrollment and retention of adolescent girls. Millions of women and children have accessed essential health and nutrition services, while savings groups and livelihood programs have enhanced women’s economic empowerment. Safety net programs have provided critical support to female farmers, entrepreneurs, and low-income households.
Despite progress, Nigerian women and girls continue to face significant challenges, including early marriage, limited educational attainment, gender-based violence, and restricted access to financial services. Persistent income gaps and low economic participation underscore the need for continued investment in health, education, and economic opportunities.
The World Bank Group’s approach integrates support across multiple sectors to address these barriers comprehensively. By combining education, health, financial inclusion, and protection services, the Bank ensures that gains in one area reinforce progress in others. Partnerships with global development organizations have also expanded impact through increased funding, innovation, and private-sector engagement.
Beneficiaries are already experiencing life-changing outcomes. One graduate credited AGILE’s digital and life skills training with helping her pursue a career in graphic design and public speaking. Programs such as NFWP, NASSP-SU, and NG-CARES are providing women with the tools needed to build sustainable livelihoods and participate fully in the economy.
Key lessons emphasize the importance of community-driven approaches and collective action. Locally managed grants improve school systems, while Women Affinity Groups strengthen financial and social networks. Tackling restrictive social norms remains essential to ensuring long-term, meaningful change.
Looking ahead, the World Bank Group’s 2024–2030 Gender Strategy will guide future investments in gender equality in Nigeria. Efforts will focus on strengthening policy reforms, improving monitoring systems, and deepening collaboration across sectors. The goal is to create sustainable, inclusive development pathways that uplift generations of Nigerian girls and women.
