The Ondo State Government has provided vocational tools to 200 women who completed training under the O’Datiwa Skill Acquisition Programme, an entrepreneurship initiative aimed at reducing poverty and promoting small business development across the state.
The beneficiaries received training in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), tailoring, soap making, catering services, interior decoration, among other vocational skills. The programme was implemented by the state government through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the first batch of beneficiaries on Tuesday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said the initiative aligns with his administration’s commitment to economic empowerment and poverty alleviation. He was represented at the event by his deputy, Olayide Adelami.
“Today, we are not just celebrating certificates, but transformation from unemployment to skill, confidence and empowerment,” Aiyedatiwa said.
“You have spent several months undergoing rigorous training at the Ministry of Women Affairs Skills Acquisition Centre, and you have shown that when government provides the platform and citizens show commitment, meaningful change is possible.”
The governor assured that the skill acquisition programme would be sustained, describing it as a long-term strategy rather than a one-off intervention. He urged the women to deploy their skills ethically, prioritise customer satisfaction and continue upgrading their competencies.
“As you receive your certificates and empowerment materials, see this as a launchpad, not a finish line. Become job creators, not job seekers. Start small businesses, deliver quality services and take pride in your work,” he charged.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Seun Osamaye, said the empowerment initiative would significantly improve the economic prospects of the beneficiaries, many of whom previously had no stable source of income.
She noted that the programme reflects the state government’s shift from token support to practical empowerment that enables women to become self-reliant and economically productive.
“These women, after six months of training, now have skills they can use sustainably. This is proof that empowerment not handouts is what truly changes lives and builds future generations,” Osamaye said.
The empowerment program comes shortly after Governor Aiyedatiwa granted amnesty to seven inmates across correctional centres in the state as part of activities marking his 61st birthday.
