Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has unveiled the Odatiwa Women Initiative’s Grant, a financial empowerment scheme designed to support 1,000 low-income women across the state.
Aiyedatiwa inaugurated the distribution of the grant on Saturday in Akure to commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day with the theme “Accelerate Action”.
The governor explained that the grant was to highlight the importance of gender equality, inclusiveness, and women’s empowerment in the society.
According to him, economic empowerment is a key strategy for ensuring that women can thrive in business, leadership, and other areas of life.
“The economic empowerment of women is a top priority for this administration. We believe that when women are supported, families flourish, communities grow, and society progresses.
“That is why we are rolling out initiatives like this grant to provide women with the financial backing needed to expand their businesses and improve their economic status.
“Let me reiterate that our administration shall prioritise the welfare and development of women in the sunshine state.
“We shall focus on all-round development of women, particularly the less-privileged, with a view to giving them the needed support to thrive in their various endeavours.
“As we move forward, we will ensure that women are actively involved in decision-making at all levels.
“The empowerment of women is not just a goal; it is a necessity for a thriving society,”
“I also appreciated the role of our women in the political and socio-economic development of the state, due to their contribution in the Nov. 16, 2024 governorship election.
According to him, the women played a vital role in my victory at the polls, so I want to thank all women in Ondo State for their loyalty and commitment.
He promised that his administration would continue to prioritise matters affecting women and the girl-child, ensuring they had opportunities to reach their full potential.
The convener of the event, Dr. Seun Osamaye, also Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, described the governor’s initiatives as a major step towards closing the gender gap in Ondo State.
“This initiative is timely and impactful, as it reflects the commitment of the Aiyedatiwa administration to ensuring that no woman is left behind.
“By empowering women, we are not just supporting individuals, but also strengthening families, communities, and the entire state’s economy”, she said.
In her goodwill message, Princess Oladunni Odu, former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), encouraged women to be bold, resilient, and proactive in pursuing leadership roles and economic independence.
Odu urged women not to shy away from opportunities but to step forward with confidence, break societal limitations, and contribute meaningfully to governance and development.
Miss Temiloluwa Okin, a student of Fiwasaye Girls Grammar School, Akure, expressed her gratitude to the governor for his initiatives.
She, particularly, thanked Aiyedatiwa for the provision of free transportation for students and the payment of West Africa Examinations Council (WAEC) fees.
