Adeleke empowers 2,000 women, youths in Osun
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on Thursday empowered 2,000 women and youths across the 30 Local Government Areas and the Area Office through the Imole Business Empowerment Scheme 1.0.
At the event held in Osogbo, and organised by the Ministry of Cooperatives and Empowerment in partnership with First Bank Plc and Fidelity Bank Plc, the governor presented beneficiaries with CAC Business Registration Certificates, Point-of-Sale (POS) Terminals, and start-up grants.
Governor Adeleke said the programme was designed not only to provide financial tools but also to build capacity for long-term growth and sustainability of businesses.
“Today’s event is not just another ceremony; it is a bold statement of our commitment to people-centred governance and inclusive development,” he declared.
He added that the establishment of the Ministry of Cooperatives and Empowerment on July 19, 2023, had since been vindicated by the remarkable achievements of the ministry, which has received national recognition, including an award at the National Cooperatives Awards and Exhibition in November 2023.
The governor also noted that the administration had extended support to persons living with disabilities in partnership with Project Enable Africa, and rehabilitated structures at the Cooperative College in Ode-Omu.
The Commissioner for Cooperatives and Empowerment, Prince Bayo Ogungbangbe, praised Governor Adeleke for prioritising grassroots empowerment and inclusive governance.
He described the empowerment scheme as “a milestone in people-centred governance,” adding that the ministry had facilitated interventions for Persons With Disabilities, including ₦4 million in funding, training, mentorship, and digital tools.
Ogungbangbe highlighted inspiring cases such as Miss Blessing Adeniran, a physically challenged graduate who completed entrepreneurship training, and Mr. Olawumi Olabode, a young man living with disability who drives a tricycle for livelihood despite not owning one.