Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved a ₦50 million empowerment grant to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day, as part of efforts to boost women’s economic participation and reduce poverty.
Of the total sum, ₦40 million is earmarked for direct financial support to women, while ₦10 million will fund the establishment of the O’Datiwa Women Cooperative Multipurpose Society, aimed at improving access to finance and strengthening women-led businesses.
The Governor announced the initiative during the state’s International Women’s Day celebration held at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome) in Akure, the state capital.
He noted that the intervention is designed to promote sustainable livelihoods and expand economic opportunities for women.
Aiyedatiwa said the programme reflects his administration’s broader commitment to inclusive growth and women’s advancement.
“These interventions are not mere policy statements, they are deliberate instruments of transformation aimed at lifting our women out of poverty and positioning them as critical drivers of our State’s economic growth” the Governor stressed.
Sustained Investment in Women
Speaking on the theme, “Give to Gain,” the Governor emphasised the importance of sustained investment in women as a pathway to national and societal development.
“It underscores a timeless truth: that meaningful investment in women, through education, healthcare, leadership development and economic empowerment, yields exponential returns for families, communities and nations alike,” Aiyedatiwa said.
Aiyedatiwa linked the theme to global advocacy under the United Nations framework on “Rights, Justice and Action for All Women and Girls,” noting its alignment with the state’s development agenda.
The governor also highlighted several ongoing initiatives supporting women, including empowerment programmes in skills development, agriculture, and social welfare, as well as targeted interventions for vulnerable groups such as widows.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to gender inclusion, citing increased representation of women in governance and decision-making processes.
Women as Partners in Development
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development said the state has continued to implement policies that expand opportunities for women and deepen inclusion across sectors.
She noted that although International Women’s Day is globally observed on March 8, the state marked it on April 21 to strengthen local participation and advocacy.
Traditional and religious leaders commended the initiative, describing women as vital partners in development and calling for sustained support for gender equality.
Awards were presented to individuals in recognition of their contributions to women’s development, with a representative of the recipients expressing appreciation for the government’s efforts.
The event attracted top government officials, community and religious leaders, women groups, artisans, and students from across the state.