A new phase of the Ilerioluwa empowerment scheme has supported one thousand market women across four local government areas in Osun State with business grants aimed at strengthening small-scale trading and reducing poverty. The programme, now in its fifth edition, continues to position grassroots women as active contributors to the local economy by easing the financial pressure that often limits micro-business growth.
The organisers explained that the initiative targets different groups, including admission seekers, youths, women, the aged, and vulnerable residents, reflecting a broader goal of improving livelihoods across the state. They added that the scheme draws inspiration from a long-standing commitment to community welfare and regular household support that predates the current edition of the programme. The current phase, they said, is part of ongoing efforts to give back to society and expand economic opportunities for residents in the federal constituency covered.
According to the organisers, the central aim is to strengthen small-scale businesses by providing grants that help women traders sustain their ventures, restock goods, and maintain daily cash flow. They noted that the fifth edition alone has supported more than one thousand individuals and that plans are ongoing to expand the number of beneficiaries in subsequent rounds.
While addressing guests, programme leaders expressed confidence that the political environment in the state will remain stable ahead of the upcoming party primary, saying that internal mechanisms are in place to maintain unity before and after the process. They added that the empowerment initiative continues to serve as a consistent channel for community support, especially for residents who rely on such interventions to meet basic needs.
With the latest rollout of grants, more women traders in Osun are receiving the financial lift they need to keep their microbusinesses afloat, expand their commercial activities, and contribute to a more resilient local economy.
