The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to women empowerment and economic inclusion with the graduation of 200 women under the first batch of the O’Datiwa Skill-Up a Woman Initiative for 2025.
The colourful graduation ceremony and presentation of empowerment materials were held at the Dome Event Centre, Akure, where beneficiaries proudly showcased products and services acquired from their respective areas of training.
Speaking at the event, the Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, described the initiative as a clear demonstration of an administration that believes in empowering women rather than encouraging dependency.
According to the governor, women play a critical role in economic growth and must be equipped with the right skills, confidence and tools to contribute meaningfully to society.
“These tools are money-making machines. Do not sell them. Use them to change your lives. Starting a business may not be easy, but remain focused, resilient and committed, and you will succeed,” Aiyedatiwa advised the graduates.
He noted that the initiative reflects his administration’s inclusive leadership philosophy, stressing that women are disciplined, reliable and appreciative when given opportunities.
“Today is not just about certificates; it is about transformation. We are celebrating women who came into this programme unemployed, discouraged and uncertain, but are now skilled, confident and ready to contribute to the economy of Ondo State,” he said.
The governor described the empowerment materials as strategic investments in human capital rather than charity and urged the beneficiaries to become job creators, uphold ethical business practices and continue to improve their skills.
He also cautioned the youths among them to shun cultism, drug abuse and violence, encouraging them to become positive change agents within their communities.
Earlier in her address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, said the programme was designed to move women from dependency to productivity.
She commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his passion for women empowerment, describing him as a leader who believes women should live with dignity and confidence.
“We have a governor who believes women should not beg to eat but be empowered to thrive,” Osamaye said.
She explained that many of the beneficiaries entered the programme facing unemployment, domestic challenges and financial hardship but were transformed through six months of free vocational and life-skills training fully sponsored by the state government.
“What women need is not tokenism or handouts. What women need is skill. Once a woman is empowered, she becomes self-reliant and also empowers her family and community,” she added.
According to her, the women were trained in ICT, fashion design, catering, baking, interior decoration, soap making and other vocational areas, noting that even elderly women successfully acquired computer skills and would be going home with laptops.
Dr Osamaye further disclosed that participation in the programme was free and based strictly on personal interest, adding that preparations were already underway for the next batch of trainees.
The ceremony climaxed with the distribution of empowerment kits and grants, including sewing machines, ovens, mixers, laptops, computers and start-up capital, tailored to each beneficiary’s area of specialisation.
Several political leaders, members of the State Executive Council, party officials, professional women, civil servants and support groups were present at the event, lending their support to the landmark empowerment initiative.
