Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday approved the sum of N50m to support women empowerment initiatives across the state, targeting widows, the elderly and other vulnerable groups.
The governor made the announcement during a meeting with women groups held at the International Culture and Event Centre in Akure, the state capital.
Aiyedatiwa said the intervention was part of his administration’s commitment to promoting the welfare and economic advancement of women.
He explained that N40m of the fund would be disbursed as grants to beneficiaries, while N10m would be used to kick-start a cooperative scheme known as the O’Datiwa Women Cooperative Multipurpose Society.
According to him, the initiative is designed to improve access to finance, strengthen small businesses and promote sustainable livelihoods among women.
“Beyond economic support, this administration remains committed to inclusivity in governance by expanding opportunities for women in leadership and decision-making,” he said.
The governor added that the empowerment programme would enhance economic independence and resilience among women in the face of current economic challenges.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, said the administration had prioritised policies and programmes aimed at improving the social, economic and political status of women in the state.
She noted that various empowerment initiatives implemented over the past year had positively impacted the lives of women and strengthened their participation in development.
Osamaye added that the ministry had adopted a strategic blueprint to guide women-focused programmes, ensuring access to opportunities and support systems across the state.
She also commended stakeholders and partners for their continued support in advancing women development initiatives.