……….Reiterates commitment to women’s welfare, devt

………..1,000 benefit from O’datiwa women initiative’s grant

By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has acknowledged the importance of women empowerment and development of girl child in the society.

Speaking at the International Women’s Day celebration, Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that no society can truly develop without paying attention to women empowerment and the development of girl-child as well as the protection of their rights and promotion of gender equality so that no gender would be disadvantaged in the scheme of things.

The Governor expressed his happiness towards the progress women have made so far, even though challenges like gender discrimination, violence against women and a host of others still exist.

“It is quite instructive that women are conscious that they can aspire to greater heights and are no longer limited by their gender. Our hopes are high in the unwavering resilience of the women gender and consistent advocacy for equal opportunities for them which has become a global commitment among stakeholders and institutions of government”.

Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated that his 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 privileged with a view to giving them the needed support to thrive in their various endeavours.

“Our administration 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.

“As we recommit ourselves to the welfare of all, we shall make it a top priority, matters affecting women and the girl-child. We shall give room for our women to unveil their full potential in attaining unlimited heights in both political and economic spaces with a view to unleashing their God-given talents for the development of our dear State.

“The journey towards equality and empowerment demands unwavering commitment, not only on the part of government, but also from all well-meaning individuals. We must confront the systemic barriers that persist, striving to create environments where women not only survive but thrive. We crave for a society where women and girls are free from violence, where their voices are heard, and contributions valued. We must envision a world where every young girl can dream without limits and pursue her passions with the support and resources she deserves.

“Let us take this opportunity to lift one another. When you empower a woman, you empower families, communities and ultimately, humanity. We must stand in unison, supporting and amplifying the voices of the female and of those who have been marginalised. I encourage each of you to share your stories, your struggles and your success. Let us inspire and learn from one another. Together, let us paint a brighter picture for generations to come”.

Earlier in her address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Mrs Seun Osamaye, noted appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for acknowledging that women are critical stakeholders in the development of Ondo State.

She stressed that are so many initiatives that has been designed to take care of women in the State, including; initiative that address rural women, to ensure that they have access to social amenities, health is wealth initiative, ensuring that women have access to good health care system, girl child initiative, to ensure that a girl child is empowered in the digital world, among others.

She stressed that when women are empowered, they can fulfill their potential and stand shoulder to shoulder with men, describing Governor Aiyedatiwa as action taking man, providing direct interventions.

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.

This year’s International Women’s Day celebration was laced with various categories of empowerment for women across the 18 Local Government Areas of Ondo State.

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 celebration with the theme: “For all women and girls : Rights, equality and empowerment took place at the Dome and had in attendance: 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, former Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, traditional rulers, religious leaders, Director General, OSRC Media group, Mr Kenneth Stevenson Odusola.