Kogi governor’s wife, Sefinat Ododo, has disbursed N25 million in grants and food items to 500 vulnerable women across Okunland in the state.

The empowerment programme, held in Kabba on Saturday, brought together beneficiaries from the five local government areas in Okunland, namely Kabba-Bunu, Ijumu, Mopamuro, Yagba East and Yagba West.

Speaking at the event, the governor’s wife said each beneficiary would receive a cash grant of N50,000 and food items as part of efforts to improve livelihoods and cushion the impact of the current economic hardship.

She described the initiative as a “direct intervention” designed to strengthen families and promote economic inclusion at the grassroots level.

Mrs Ododo said the initiative was aimed at providing immediate relief and long-term support to women, widows, and other vulnerable groups.

She noted that the grants were intended to help beneficiaries expand their businesses, cater for their families, and become more economically self-reliant.

“Our women are hardworking and resilient. When we support them, we strengthen homes, build stronger communities, and create opportunities for sustainable development.

“This empowerment programme is our way of giving hope and helping our women achieve greater economic stability,” she said.

The governor’s wife emphasised that women remain critical stakeholders in community development and nation-building.

According to her, empowering women is one of the most effective strategies for fighting poverty and improving the welfare of families across Kogi State.

She reaffirmed the commitment of her husband’s administration to implementing people-focused programmes and policies that directly impact citizens in all parts of the state.

She urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the grants and food items, stressing that the support was meant to grow businesses and improve living conditions.

She also called on the people of Okunland to continue supporting Governor Usman Ododo’s administration, noting that the government remains focused on delivering good governance and expanding opportunities for citizens statewide.

She further appealed to the Okun people to sustain their support for President Bola Tinubu, saying, “the Renewed Hope Agenda is laying a strong foundation for economic growth, social development and national prosperity.”

She expressed confidence that federal reforms and programmes would continue to yield positive results and improve the lives of Nigerians.

Earlier, while receiving royal blessings at the palace of the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Owoniyi, the governor’s wife assured the royal father of the government’s commitment to supporting traditional institutions.

According to her, traditional institutions are vital partners in promoting peace, unity, and development.

The beneficiaries of the grants expressed gratitude for the intervention, describing it as “timely, impactful and life-changing.”

One of them, Olanike Adebayo, pledged to use the support effectively and commended the governor’s wife for remembering women and vulnerable groups during a period of economic challenges. 

(NAN)