In fulfillment of its commitment to women’s economic empowerment and self-reliance, the Ondo state government has graduated over 200 women trained in various vocational skills.
The training, tagged “O’Datiwa Skill-Up a Woman Initiative,” marked the first batch of the skill acquisition programme and covered six different trades aimed at enhancing women’s economic stability and vocational capacity.
Speaking at the graduation and empowerment ceremony held on Tuesday at The Dome in Akure, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s resolve to prioritize the welfare of women, youths and other vulnerable groups across the state.
Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor emphasized the critical role of skills acquisition in empowering women and positioning them to contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.
He commended the graduands for their dedication and perseverance throughout the months of intensive training and assured them that the programme would be expanded to reach more women across the state.
“Today, we celebrate the transformation of our graduands from unemployed individuals into skilled, confident and empowered women ready to contribute to the economic growth of our dear state.
“I commend every one of you for the discipline, punctuality and commitment you demonstrated throughout this training. Be assured that this initiative will remain a continuous exercise under our administration,” the governor stated.
In her introductory remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Seun Osemaye, expressed satisfaction with the high level of dedication exhibited by the trainees during the six-month intensive programme.
She encouraged the beneficiaries to continue to excel in their chosen fields and to build sustainably on the skills they have acquired.
Osemaye also appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering support for the programme and his pro-women policies, which she noted have continued to elevate the status of women in Ondo state.
The Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ololade Gbegudu, urged the women to take their newly acquired skills seriously and deploy them productively to support their families and communities.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of ₦7.5 million in grants to soap makers and interior decorators, alongside sewing machines, modern ovens and mixers for cake-making, laptops and other work tools to enable the beneficiaries establish their businesses.
The ceremony was attended by members of the State Executive Council, including the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Segun Omoyofunmi; the Commissioner for Energy, Mr. Alabi Johnson; APC Women Leader, Chief Moji Lijoka; the Administrative Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Oluseyi Odusola; leaders of artisans’ associations, market women, and other stakeholders.
John Paul Akinduro,
Press Secretary to Ondo State Governor
(Office of the Deputy Governor)
January 20, 2026