Osun State Governor in Southwest Nigeria, Ademola Adeleke, has empowered two thousand women and youths across the state, describing them as the most productive segment of society.
The event, which was held on Thursday in Osogbo, was organised by the Ministry of Cooperatives and Empowerment in collaboration with two financial institutions.
Speaking during the presentation of items, Adeleke noted that the aim was to expand access to tools of trade and startup capital.
The governor also stated that the event was not just another ceremony but a bold statement of his commitment to people-centred governance and inclusive development.
“We are gathered here for the presentation of Business Registration Certificates, Point-of-Sale Terminals (POS), and Start-Up Grants to 2,000 women and youth beneficiaries of the Imole Business Empowerment Scheme 1.0, organised by the Ministry of Cooperatives and Empowerment in partnership with First Bank Plc and Fidelity Bank Plc,” the Governor announced.
𝗜𝗺𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗲 1.0 —𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘀𝘂𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 & 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻!
Today, I launched the Imole Business Empowerment Scheme 1.0, granting 2,000 women and youths across all 30 Local Governments and the Area Office of Osun… pic.twitter.com/B0C9Y6wCk6
— Gov Ademola Adeleke (@AAdeleke_01) September 11, 2025
Adeleke, who said the choice of women and youths as targets of the initiative was deliberate, noted that inclusivity and all-around development were the motives behind the programme.
Abandon beneficiaries
He explained that the priority of his government was to make empowerment accessible to everyone at the grassroots, promising not to abandon beneficiaries but to continue to support them through training and capacity building.
He said, “Beyond the handover of tools and funds, this scheme is built on capacity building and training so our beneficiaries can grow and expand their businesses sustainably.
“This initiative is not just about today; it is about building the future of Osun State. It is about equipping our people with the skills, opportunities, and support to thrive. By focusing on women and youth, we are investing in the most productive segment of our society.”
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Commissioner for Empowerment and Cooperatives Development, Prince Bayo Ogungbangbe, noted that the event was a testament to Governor Adeleke’s commitment to sustainable development, youth empowerment, women’s advancement, and inclusive growth.
He said such empowerment initiatives would help create employment, reduce poverty and give hope to people at the grassroots.
He charged the beneficiaries to maximise the opportunity and grow their businesses with hard work, diligence and dedication.