The National Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Mary Idele, has commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for prioritising the welfare of women, youths and vulnerable groups through his inclusive approach to governance in Ondo state.
Dr. Idele gave the commendation on Wednesday during the Sensitization and Empowerment of Women on Gender Equality and Adequate Representation in Governance programme held at The Dome, Akure.
She explained that the initiative was designed to encourage women to participate actively in politics and decision-making processes while also promoting the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration across the 774 local government areas of the country.
Dr. Idele noted that Governor Aiyedatiwa has continued to demonstrate his commitment to inclusive governance by appointing women from diverse backgrounds to strategic positions and creating opportunities for them to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.
“I must also salute the Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of Ondo state. Your administration continues to demonstrate that governance is most meaningful when it reaches the grassroots and improves the daily lives of ordinary citizens.
“Your support in making the Project 774 Initiative a reality here in Ondo state reflects your belief in grassroots development, women’s empowerment and inclusive governance,” she said.
She also appreciated the First Lady of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, for the impact of the Renewed Hope Initiative, which she said has continued to improve the lives of women and vulnerable Nigerians across the country.
In his remarks, Governor Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, commended the APC National Women leader and her team for bringing the Project 774 Explode Initiative to Ondo state to empower women.
According to him, “The initiative is more than an intervention programme; it is a bold declaration that the future of our country depends on unlocking the immense potential of women in every community and sphere of public life.”
The governor disclosed that many women in Ondo state are already playing transformative roles in public administration, entrepreneurship, technology, education, agriculture and governance through his pro-women policies.
“This reminds us that leadership is not a function of gender but of competence, character, vision and service,” he added.
He also applauded President Bola Tinubu and the First Lady for their unwavering commitment to creating greater opportunities for women across all sectors of national development.
Welcoming participants to the programme, wife of the Ondo State Governor, Mrs. Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Dr. Abosede Adelami, reaffirmed the commitment of the Ondo state government to policies and programmes that promote the welfare and advancement of women across all socio-economic groups.
“Today, we gather not as strangers but as partners united by a common purpose, to build a society where every woman and girl can participate fully, equally and safely in shaping the future of our state,” she said.
She encouraged women not to underestimate the power of their voices, urging them to actively participate in politics, leadership and community development, stressing that their contributions are vital to shaping Nigeria’s future.
A major highlight of the programme was the presentation of empowerment cheques to women drawn from all 18 local government areas of Ondo State.
The event attracted several dignitaries from within and outside the state, including the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Hon. Justice Olusegun Odusola, represented by Hon. Justice Alero Akeredolu; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Chief Segun Odusanya, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye; and other top government officials and party leaders.
