By Kemi Peters & Tayo Olusanya

A micro finance scheme that will boost the economic power of Ogun women will soon be rolled out, the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has revealed.

Governor Abiodun made this revelation in Abeokuta at the commemoration of 2021 International Women’s Day with 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.

Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Prince Abiodun said his administration has been propagating gender equality, going by the number of women in his cabinet, as well as his 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 event was the empowerment of 50 women with 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.