The Ondo State Government has unveiled a ₦50 million empowerment package for women, the elderly, and widows, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive socio-economic development. The initiative was announced by Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa during a meeting with women’s groups at the International Culture and Event Centre in Akure on Tuesday.
Aiyedatiwa said the intervention underscores his administration’s resolve to support the aspirations of women and girls across the state by widening access to finance and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.
“Beyond economic interventions, this administration has remained deliberate in promoting inclusivity in governance. We have continued to expand opportunities for women in political appointments and decision-making processes, in the firm belief that no society can attain its full potential while excluding half of its population. Going forward, we shall deepen these efforts and broaden opportunities for women across all sectors,” he said.
“To further demonstrate our commitment, I am pleased to announce that the sum of ₦50 million has been approved to commemorate this year’s celebration. Of this amount, ₦40 million will be disbursed today as financial grants to empower our women, while the remaining ₦10 million will be deployed for the official launch of the O’Datiwa Women Cooperative Multipurpose Society.
“These initiatives are designed to expand access to finance, strengthen enterprise, and promote sustainable livelihoods among our women. I am confident that these interventions will serve as a catalyst for economic independence and resilience, particularly in these challenging times within the global economic landscape.”
Of the total allocation, ₦40 million will be distributed as direct financial grants to beneficiaries, while ₦10 million will be used to establish the O’Datiwa Women Cooperative Multipurpose Society.
The State Commissioner for Women and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, said the administration has placed women’s advancement at the centre of its social and economic agenda.
“Through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, this administration is creating opportunities, amplifying voices, and ensuring that no woman is left behind,” Osamaye said.
“We can proudly recount numerous empowerment programmes and impactful initiatives implemented in the past year, which have significantly improved livelihoods, restored dignity, and strengthened the confidence of women across Ondo State.
“These focal points are not merely policies on paper; they are actionable pathways designed to ensure that every woman, regardless of age, status, or location, has access to opportunities, support systems, and the enabling environment needed to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the growth of our dear state.”
