The Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has provided vocational tools to 200 women who successfully completed training under the O’Datiwa Skill Acquisition Programme, an entrepreneurial initiative aimed at improving livelihoods across the state.
The beneficiaries received hands-on training in Information and Communication Technology, tailoring, soap making, catering services, interior decoration and other practical skills designed to meet current market needs.
The programme was sponsored by the Ondo State government through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development as part of a broader effort to promote economic inclusion and reduce poverty among women.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the first batch of 200 beneficiaries on Tuesday, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the initiative aligns with his administration’s poverty alleviation agenda.
Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor stated that the skill acquisition programme would remain continuous, noting that empowering women is critical to sustainable development in the state.
“Today, we gather not just to celebrate certificates, but to celebrate transformation, the transformation of our graduands from unemployed individuals into skilled, confident and empowered women ready to contribute to the economy of our dear state.”
He said the women spent months undergoing rigorous training at the Ministry of Women Affairs Skills Acquisition Centre, learning tailoring, interior decoration, soap making, catering services and ICT.
Aiyedatiwa praised the commitment shown by the participants, stressing that when government provides opportunities and citizens show dedication, meaningful progress can be achieved.
“I want to assure you that this kind of training will continue under our administration, as it is not a one-off initiative but the beginning of a long-term empowerment drive.”
The governor urged the beneficiaries to apply the skills they acquired responsibly, maintain ethical standards, satisfy customers and keep learning in order to improve their businesses.
“As you receive your certificates and empowerment materials, see this moment as a launchpad and not a finish line, become job creators, start small enterprises and take pride in your work.”
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Seun Osamaye, said the empowerment would help the women earn a stable living and regain confidence.
She explained that many beneficiaries were previously hopeless with no reliable source of income, but the training and tools have given them a sustainable means of survival.
“The state government has shown that women do not need token support but real empowerment to become self-reliant and raise stronger generations for the future.”
Osamaye added that after six months of training, the 200 women are now equipped with practical skills that protect them from ridicule and dependency.
The empowerment initiative comes days after Governor Aiyedatiwa granted amnesty to seven inmates across Nigeria Correctional Centres in Ondo State to mark his 61st birthday.
Officials said similar programmes will be expanded to reach more vulnerable women in communities statewide in coming months ahead soon.
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