Posted by Chinenye on Tue 21st Apr, 2026 - tori.ng
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved a N50 million empowerment programme for women, particularly widows and the elderly, during a stakeholders’ meeting in Akure.
(Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Photo Credit: Arise News)
Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the governor of Ondo State, stated on Tuesday that N50 million would be used to empower women in the state, especially widows and the elderly.
The governor declared that by encouraging goals, elevating their voices, and making investments in their future, his administration would continue to stand solidly with the state's women and girls.
During a meeting with several women's organizations in the state, Aiyedatiwa made the contribution announcement. The state capital of Akure hosted the event at the International Culture and Event Center.
The governor stated that N10 million of the funds would be utilized to launch the O'Datiwa Women Cooperative Multipurpose Society, a multipurpose cooperative organization.
He said, ” Beyond economic interventions, this administration has also remained intentional 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.
"To further show our dedication, I am pleased to announce that the sum of N50million only has been approved to commemorate this year’s celebration. Out of this amount, N40 million will be disbursed today as financial grants to empower our women, while the remaining N10 million will be deployed for the official launch of the O’Datiwa Women Cooperative Multipurpose Society.
"These programs aim to increase financial access, 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.
”In her greeting speech, the state Commissioner for Women and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, said the current administration in the state had continued to prioritize policies and programmes that uplift women socially, economically, and politically.
"By means of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, this Administration is doing so much to create opportunities, amplifying voices, and ensuring that no woman is left behind.
” We can proudly recount numerous empowerment programmes and impactful initiatives implemented in the last one year which have significantly improved livelihoods, restored dignity, and strengthened the confidence of women across Ondo State to further consolidate our efforts and provide a clear roadmap for sustainable impact, the Ministry has adopted the 10 Focal Points of the O’datiwa Women Initiative Blue Print as a strategic guide for women’s development in Ondo state.
"These focal points are more than just written policies, 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.”
She thanked all the stakeholders and philanthropists whose donations have continued to support government initiatives to advance women's rights in the state.