By Kemi Peters & Tayo Olusanya

In commemoration of this year's International Women's Day in Ogun state, no fewer than fifty women selected from various Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) were empowered with items ranging from Deep freezers, Grinding machines, Standing Hair Dryers, Industrial Cooking Gas, as well as Sewing Machines.

 Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was represented by his deputy, Engineer Noimot Salako at the occasion held at the  State Secretariat Arcade Ground, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta said his administration would not relent at making life more meaningful and convenient for all women.

while speaking on the theme   "Women in Leadership: Achieving an Equal Future in COVID-19 World” organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in collaboration with Ajose Foundation, the Governor said that a micro finance scheme that will boost the economic power of Ogun women will soon be rolled out.

 He added that this  administration has been propagating gender equality, going by the number of women in the cabinet, as well as the decision to continue empowering the women folks.

In her welcome address, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Efuwape said the theme for the celebration reflected the notable efforts of women around the world in shaping a more equal future and recovery from COVID-19 pandemic.

She added that women in the country are setting new records in achievements, therefore the government at all levels should continue to promote gender equality, fairness and justice between women and men.

On her part, the Head of Service, Alhaja Selimot Ottun lauded the State Governor for being gender friendly and urged women to train their children properly, saying the progress of any nation depends largely upon the way mothers nurture their children, since they are the leaders of tomorrow. 

While making a presentation, the guest speaker, Mrs. Olapeju Osoba, charged women to challenge all forms of bias against female gender, as well as other inequalities, commending Governor Dapo Abiodun for his choice of women in his cabinet for their remarkable achievements.

Highlights of the items for empowerment of  the 50 women included 10 industrial cooking gas, 12kg cylinder, 10 standing hair dryers, 10 giant deep freezers, 10 sewing machines, and 10 grinding machines facilitated by the Office of the First Lady and Ajose Foundation.

In their responses, some of the beneficiaries Mrs. Ajayi Yemisi, Nike Osidahunsi, Rasidat Akinbode, and Allimot Ayoola Afolabi, appreciated the Governor and his wife, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun for their gesture and support.

Kemi Peters & Tayo Olusanya,