Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has said that his administration will prioritize the inclusion and empowerment of women across all levels of government in continuation of his efforts to ensure gender inclusiveness which is crucial for development and progress.
Governor Aiyedatiwa made this assertion during a women’s summit organized by the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), Ondo State chapter, at the International Culture and Events Center in Akure, on Tuesday.
The Governor commended the NCWS for its longstanding dedication to advancing not only women’s rights but also the welfare of the entire society, praising the Council’s leadership under Mrs. Oluseyi Odusola.
He also commended the ingenuity in organizing such a significant event, emphasizing that the conference would inspire women to contribute significantly to nation-building, with Ondo State as a leading platform.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to gender inclusivity, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured on continued efforts to increase women’s representation in governance, recognizing their trustworthiness and capacity to drive growth and development.
“Similarly, let me assure you, our mothers that our administration is not relenting in its efforts at making life better for our people in the State. We shall continue to pursue programmes and policies to relieve parents of the burden of parenthood towards our children.
“This year, the State Government had paid WAEC fees for our children in public secondary schools. We have plans for bursaries and scholarships, the details of which are being worked out.
“We are equally collaborating effectively with the Federal Government to make food available and affordable to the public. The State Government had set up an Agriculture and Food Security Committee that is doing a good job. Our commitment to ensuring that no family goes to bed hungry in Ondo State is total”, he added
Addressing the upcoming gubernatorial election on November 16, 2024, the Governor called on mothers to prevent their young ones from being exploited by self-serving politicians, stressing the importance of a peaceful, free, and fair election.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Deaconess Lola Fagbemi, described Governor Aiyedatiwa as a women-friendly governor, emphasizing his dedication to their welfare and empowerment.
She noted that the Governor prioritizes women’s issues and consistently supports their interests by implementing structures and initiatives aimed at improving the overall welfare of all citizens in the state.
The State President of the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), Mrs. Odusola Oluseyi, emphasized the importance of safeguarding voter cards, stressing that women, as the majority, hold the power to secure victory for Governor Aiyedatiwa in the forthcoming gubernatorial election.
She cautioned women against being swayed by other political parties and encouraged them to let their votes speak for their interests by electing Governor Aiyedatiwa.
In their goodwill messages, the Special Advisers on Education, Oluwawunmi Ilawole, on Gender, Olamide Falana, and on Women Affairs, Bosede Osamaye, expressed gratitude to the governor for promoting inclusiveness in his administration, urging that more women should be appointed into key positions.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of an Award of Excellence to the Governor in recognition of his leadership style and support for women, while special prayers were also offered for the Governor.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
July 16, 2024