By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Kano
There was disappointment among many women in Kiru Local Government Area of Kano State on Saturday after an empowerment programme organised by the council chairman, Abdullahi Saidu, ended with the distribution of detergents.
The programme, which targeted women—particularly those described as vulnerable and economically disadvantaged—had drawn a large turnout of beneficiaries from Yalwa Ward and surrounding communities.
However, tension and murmurs reportedly filled the venue when the items were unveiled as bags containing household detergents, including brands such as Omo, Klin and Viva, which were later shared among about 500 women.
Some of the women were seen expressing dissatisfaction, saying they had expected more substantial forms of support capable of improving their livelihoods rather than consumable household items.
The local government chairman, while presenting the items, said the initiative was designed to support women at the grassroots level and reduce some of their domestic and household burdens.
He maintained that the intervention formed part of the council’s ongoing efforts to reach vulnerable groups within the local government area.
The development has, however, generated mixed reactions, coming at a time of increased political activities ahead of future elections, with various outreach programmes becoming more visible across communities.
In a related development, the member representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa, had recently distributed diapers to pregnant women in parts of the constituency as part of similar outreach efforts.
While some residents described such interventions as helpful in providing short-term relief, others argued that they fall short of sustainable empowerment capable of addressing long-term economic needs.
Stakeholders have continued to call on political office holders to prioritise skills-based and income-generating programmes that can create lasting economic impact for women and youths in the area.
