The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has unveiled the Odatiwa Women Initiative’s Grant, a financial empowerment scheme designed to support 1,000 low-income women across the state.
He flagged off the distribution of the grant during the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration, held on Saturday at the International Culture and Event Centre (The Dome) in Akure.
The event, themed “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, and Employment,” highlighted the importance of gender equality, inclusiveness, and women’s empowerment in the society.
During the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare and development of women, particularly the less privileged.
He emphasized that economic empowerment is a key strategy for ensuring that women can thrive in business, leadership, and other areas of life.
The governor said; “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 priviledged 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”, the Governor said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also used the occasion to appreciate the role of women in the political and socio-economic development of the state, acknowledging their contributions in the November 16, 2024 Gubernatorial Election, which played a vital role in his victory.
“The new dawn we all crave is here, and I want to thank all women in Ondo State for their loyalty and commitment. We will continue to prioritize matters affecting women and the girl-child, ensuring they have opportunities to reach their full potential.
“In consonance with the foregoing, our adminisration shall continue to uphold and improve on women inclusivity in the governance of Ondo State. We have already started reflecting this in the few appointments made so far in this new tenure and also in grassroots governance at the Local Government level. I must assure you that the days ahead are loaded with salutary opportunities for our women in Ondo State”, he added.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that achieving gender equality requires collective effort from both the government and society. He urged individuals, institutions, and stakeholders to support initiatives that promote the rights and empowerment of women.
The convener of the event, Dr. Seun Osamaye, who is the 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.
Dr. Osamaye highlighted the state government’s ongoing efforts in providing women with the necessary tools to succeed, particularly in entrepreneurship and leadership.
“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.
She urged women not to shy away from opportunities but to step forward with confidence, break societal limitations, and contribute meaningfully to governance and development.
Contributing to the discourse, Temiloluwa Okin, a student of Fiwasaye Girls Grammar School, Akure, expressed her gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his administration’s initiatives, particularly the provision of free transportation for students and the payment of WAEC fees.
The event featured a Panel Discussion Session that focused on gender equality and inclusiveness. Experts and policymakers discussed critical issues such as; Women’s participation in leadership and decision-making, access to economic and employment opportunities, the role of education in bridging gender gaps and strategies for combating gender-based violence and discrimination.
The event also included the official presentation of cheques to some of the beneficiaries.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa, traditional rulers, religious leaders and top government functionaries.
