The First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, has called for collaborative efforts to bridge the socioeconomic gaps existing among women.
Mrs Abiodun also urged governments and other critical stakeholders to deepen their engagements in creating opportunities for women across Nigeria to thrive.
The governor’s wife spoke in Ijebu – Ode, Ogun State, while delivering her keynote address at the empowerment of Ogun 50 rural women with solar – powered kiosks by Adeola Azeez Community Care Foundation (AACCF), in partnership with the Bank of Industry (BOI) and Neighbours Shop.
The intervention entails that the beneficiaries earn 60% of profits, tracked daily and weekly via installed tablets, while 40% is retained for reinvestment. The model ensures transparency and motivates beneficiaries to excel.
Mrs Abiodun who was represented at the event by Mrs. Bolanle Alake Oduyale, described the project as a “powerful symbol of resilience, hope, and progress.”
Noting the role of women as key drivers of economic growth, she emphasised the importance of collective action to bridge existing socio-economic gaps.
“Empowering women is not just an obligation; it is an investment in the prosperity of our society,”she added.
Mrs. Abiodun commended AACCF for its unwavering dedication to sustainable development and applauded BOI and Neighbours Shop for their strategic contributions, even as she pledged continued government support to amplify the initiative.
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“Together, we can create a future where every woman, regardless of her background, has the resources and tools to thrive,” she concluded.
Mrs. Adeola Azeez, Founder of AACCF, said the initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
She described the solar-powered kiosks as “more than just business hubs,” saying they are platforms for innovation, sustainability, and empowerment.
“Each kiosk is equipped with renewable energy systems, digital inventory management tools, and refrigeration units, addressing critical challenges in informal retail sectors while promoting environmental resilience.
“By ensuring operational efficiency and sustainability at this phase, we create a scalable model for empowerment across Nigeria,”she noted.
While commending BOI for its N97 million grant and to Neighbours Shop for their operational expertise, she called on traditional rulers, government officials, and private entities to join forces in scaling up the initiative.
The Bank of Industry (BOI), represented by Mr. John Akinde, said the institution is unwavering in its commitment to gender-focused and sustainable initiatives.
“Women constitute a significant portion of our population and are pivotal contributors to households, communities, and the national economy.
“The solar-powered feature ensures environmental sustainability, reduces operational costs, and extends the impact to remote areas,” Akinde said.