Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved a ₦50 million empowerment package for women as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day in the state.
Out of the total sum, ₦40 million will be disbursed as direct financial support to women, while ₦10 million is earmarked for the establishment of the O’Datiwa Women Cooperative Multipurpose Society.
The governor announced the initiative on Tuesday at the celebration held at The Dome in Akure, stating that the intervention is designed to improve access to finance, strengthen women-led businesses and promote sustainable livelihoods across the state.
Gov Aiyedatiwa described the move as part of deliberate efforts by his administration to reduce poverty and boost women’s participation in the economy.
“These interventions are not mere policy statements but practical steps to lift our women out of poverty and position them as key drivers of economic growth,” he said.
Speaking on the theme, “Give to Gain,” the governor stressed the need for sustained investment in women, noting that empowering women through education, healthcare, leadership and economic opportunities yields broad societal benefits.
He linked the theme to global advocacy under the United Nations framework promoting rights, justice and action for women and girls, adding that it aligns with his administration’s development agenda.
The governor also highlighted ongoing programmes targeted at women, including skills acquisition, agricultural support, financial inclusion initiatives and welfare schemes for vulnerable groups such as widows.
Reaffirming his commitment to gender inclusion, Aiyedatiwa said his government will continue to create opportunities for women in governance and decision-making.
He commended development partners and stakeholders for supporting women-focused initiatives and urged women to continue backing government policies.
“International Women’s Day is more than a celebration; it is a reminder of our shared responsibility to advance women socially, economically and politically,” he added.
In her keynote address, the First Lady, Esther Aiyedatiwa, described the celebration as a global reminder of the resilience and contributions of women.
She said this year’s focus on financial empowerment reflects the realities of households and the need for women to achieve economic independence.
Mrs Aiyedatiwa announced that 1,200 women across the state will benefit from the financial grant, describing it as a strategic investment in families and communities.
She also unveiled the O’Datiwa Women’s Cooperative Multipurpose Society, aimed at enhancing collaboration, expanding access to resources and creating sustainable economic opportunities.
While acknowledging progress, she noted that women still face challenges such as limited access to finance, inequality and social barriers, urging stakeholders to intensify efforts toward gender equality.
She encouraged women to remain determined in the pursuit of their rights and aspirations, while calling on men and institutions to support inclusive development.
In her welcome address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Oluwaseun Osamaye, said the state government has sustained efforts to expand opportunities for women across sectors.
She explained that although International Women’s Day is globally marked on March 8, Ondo State observed it on April 21 to reinforce local participation in global advocacy.
Dr Osamaye noted that the state has recorded significant progress in women empowerment through targeted programmes covering economic support, education, healthcare and political inclusion.
She disclosed that hundreds of women have benefited from financial assistance, skills acquisition and business support schemes, while more than 1,000 women were empowered in 2025 alone.
Also speaking, President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Eunice Aderonke Alade, called for sustained investment in women, describing empowerment as essential to societal development.
She stressed the need to remove structural and cultural barriers limiting women, noting that empowering women leads to broader economic and social gains.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the APC State Chairman, Babatunde Kolawole, and the Olowo of Owo, Ajibade Ogunoye, among others, who commended the governor’s commitment to women’s welfare.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of Icon Awards to distinguished individuals for their contributions to women development in the state.
The event was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, women groups, artisans and students.
