The Oyebanji Administration in Ekiti State has initiated a comprehensive training and empowerment program to equip over 5,000 female youths with the skills to thrive as Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneurs. This endeavor underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the state’s economic landscape.
Mrs. Tayo Adeola, the State Commissioner for Trade, Investment, Industry, and Co-operatives, disclosed this development during the official launch of a 3-day training session on Business Management and Financial Literacy for Ekiti Female Youths in Ado Ekiti. The program, organized in collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), the Enterprise Development Centre, and Pan-Atlantic University, aims to foster entrepreneurship among female youths.
Highlighting the administration’s dedication to supporting youth empowerment initiatives, Adeola emphasized that the workshop represents just the initial phase of a broader empowerment agenda. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to partnering with individuals and organizations to uplift youth from unemployment and poverty.
Adeola cited recent initiatives, including a N1.5 billion fund to support Small and Midsize Enterprises (SMEs), demonstrating the government’s proactive approach in bolstering economic growth. Furthermore, she assured that similar programs tailored for male youths are in the pipeline, underscoring the inclusive nature of the government’s empowerment strategies.
Encouraging program beneficiaries to capitalize on the opportunities provided, Adeola emphasized the importance of active participation and utilization of acquired knowledge and skills to advance their businesses. Notably, participants stand to gain additional benefits such as training in website design, and branding, and free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration upon completion of the program.
In response, Mrs. Deborah Odere, representing fellow participants, expressed gratitude to the state government for its commendable initiatives. She pledged to leverage the imparted skills for quality service delivery and sustainable economic growth, echoing the commitment of beneficiaries to contribute positively to the state’s development.
The training and empowerment program spearheaded by the Ekiti State Government signifies a significant step towards fostering entrepreneurship and economic empowerment among female youths. With a comprehensive approach encompassing skill-building, financial literacy, and access to resources, the initiative holds promise in nurturing a vibrant ecosystem of small and medium-scale enterprises. As beneficiaries leverage newfound knowledge and support, they are poised to become catalysts for economic transformation and community development in Ekiti State.
