CUSO INTERNATIONAL STAKEHOLDERS MEETING

Cuso International held a one day Stakeholders Meetings with all partners for the Implementation of the SKILL Project in Akwa Ibom, Benue, Cross River and Taraba State.

Mr. Uko Ekott who is Cuso International Nigeria country Representative thanked all partners and stakeholders for their support throughout 2022 and also shared the 2023 project implementation plans for the year.

He also sought for continuous partnership and collaboration of the Ministry of Women Affairs and other MDA’s in Cross River State.

Mr. Bassey Effiong shared with all stakeholders the success stories from SKILL Project in 2022, having a total of 700 beneficiaries, 30% from host communities and 70% from refugee camp. 50million persons were supported with cash grants to boost their already existing businesses. 51 persons were enrolled in NABTEB examination.

He also shared some challenges where some beneficiaries sold out the starter-packs given to them.

Overview of 2023 strategic plans for Cross River State and other states was shared by Mr. Bassey Effong.

The Honorable Commissioner for Ministry of women Affairs, Surv. Gertrude Nnanjar Njar suggested that the targeted 20 persons should be between Etung and Boki LGA respectively rather than taking it to only one LGA.

The Hon. Commissioner appealed to Cuso International to also consider empowering the vulnerable women and children within Cross River State which is the mandate of the Ministry of Women Affairs as the number of vulnerable women increase by the day.

In conclusion Asso. Prof. Gertrude Njah thanked Cuso International for sending an ICT expert to the Ministry who has been of great help and support in the systems and communication Unit of the Ministry and also solicited that sophisticated gadgets be provided him to aid his work.

Also in attendance were the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of International Development and Cooperation, Representative from the Obong’s Palace, Chiefs and other Stakeholders