The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the lives of its citizens, particularly through the empowerment of women. This declaration was made by the Director-General of the Bureau of Civic Orientation and Citizenship, Mrs. Olawumi Famuyiwa, at a strategic meeting held with traditional leaders and key stakeholders,
organized by the Ekiti State Government in collaboration with the World Bank, the meeting is part of the Nigeria For Women Program – Scale Up (NFWP-SU) which took place in Ayekire Local Government Area, Ode-Ekiti and Gbonyin LCDA in Aisegba.
During her address, Mrs. Famuyiwa underscored the importance of collective action to achieve these empowerment goals. She urged the community to rally behind initiatives spearheaded by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji aimed at improving the economic status of women in the area.
“The empowerment of women is crucial for the overall development of our society,” Mrs. Famuyiwa emphasized. “We must work together to create opportunities that will enable women to thrive both economically and socially.”
The meeting served as a platform for outlining strategies to implement programs that uplift women and improve their quality of life in Ekiti State. Stakeholders expressed optimism about the transformative potential of these initiatives, which aim to foster a more equitable future for all residents.
In her opening remarks, the Hon. Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Peju Babafemi, highlighted the multiplier effect of empowering women on families, communities, and the nation. She noted that economically empowered women play a vital role in promoting peace, stability, and socio-economic development.
Mrs Babafemi pointed out that Ogun State had already benefited from the program between 2020 and 2024, congratulating attendees for being among the three Local Government Areas selected in Ekiti by the World Bank.
The Olode of Ode, Oba Adedara Aderiye, represented by his wife, Olori Idowu Aderiye, urged the women present to mobilize their communities for the program, particularly encouraging them to join the Affinity Groups (WAGs). She expressed gratitude to the State Government for prioritizing women’s empowerment.
The Ekiti State Coordinator for NFWP-SU, Mrs. Toyin Familoni, explained that Women Affinity Groups are voluntary, community-based initiatives designed to promote savings, livelihood opportunities, and peer support.
She stressed the importance of early enrollment in these groups to ensure that beneficiaries can fully access the program’s benefits, including livelihood support and collective economic opportunities.
Mrs. Familoni stated that the facilitators are already present in the communities to assist them . Women are welcome to join the Affinity Groups, regardless of their tribe or party affiliation. The State government does not require anyone to pay for a form or to anyone to benefit from the program ; participation is free of charge.
