Lagos — The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) has instituted a micro credit programme in which members of a socio-economic group, Ijaw Mothers Union will get money to run businesses.

The company said about N6 million has been earmarked for the scheme, adding that in the first batch, about 100 women will benefit from the loan.

The Executive Vice-President of Shell Exploration and Production in Africa Ann Pickard handed over the cheque to the union.

SPDC's General Manager Social Performance and Community Affairs Tony Attah said the micro credit scheme, in addition to empowering the Niger Delta woman is expected to increase awareness to the role of women in peace building in the Delta.

"I believe strongly in the partnership SPDC is about to start with the Ijaw Mother's Union and hoped it will promote the Ijaw women to a level of starting their own businesses", he said.

The micro credit scheme is also expected to create a platform for strengthening the Ijaw Mothers Union primary co-operative societies.

The Rivers State Commissioner for Women Affairs Mrs. Manuela George-Izunwa commended the initiative. She said it will empower women to take their rightful place in society.