Adeleke's Bold Move: 2,000 Women and Youths Get Business Boost in Landmark Empowerment Drive

Written By: Flipbz.org

In a major push for economic self-reliance, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has launched an ambitious initiative to equip 2,000 women and young people with essential tools for entrepreneurship. The program, dubbed the Imole Business Empowerment Scheme 1.0, distributed business registration certificates from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Point of Sales (POS) terminals, and startup grants to participants from across the state.

The rollout, spearheaded by the Ministry of Cooperatives and Empowerment in collaboration with First Bank Plc and Fidelity Bank Plc, underscores a strategic effort to foster financial inclusion and job creation. Beneficiaries, selected to represent diverse communities, now have the resources to launch and sustain their ventures, turning innovative ideas into viable enterprises.

Governor Adeleke, addressing the gathering, highlighted the initiative's transformative potential. "This scheme is a practical demonstration of our resolve to take empowerment beyond slogans, by giving our people tools to create wealth, jobs, and prosperity," he stated. He further emphasized the event as "a bold statement of our commitment to people-centered governance and inclusive development," signaling a shift toward tangible support for grassroots economic growth.

The Commissioner for Cooperatives and Empowerment, Bayo Ogungbangbe, echoed these sentiments, noting that the partnership with leading financial institutions aims to promote widespread entrepreneurship. "We're not just handing out items; we're building a foundation for sustainable livelihoods," he added, pointing to the scheme's role in bridging gaps in access to formal business setups and digital payment solutions.

This empowerment drive arrives at a critical juncture, as rising youth unemployment and gender disparities in business ownership challenge the region's progress. By providing CAC certifications, POS devices for seamless transactions, and seed funding, the program empowers recipients to navigate regulatory hurdles and tap into digital markets, potentially sparking a wave of homegrown startups.

Experts view the Imole scheme as a model for scalable interventions, with early signs of enthusiasm from beneficiaries who plan to venture into sectors like retail, agribusiness, and services. As Osun State eyes broader economic revitalization, this first edition sets the stage for expanded phases, promising deeper integration of women and youth into the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Governor Adeleke's administration has positioned the initiative as a cornerstone of its development agenda, with officials hinting at follow-up training and monitoring to ensure long-term success. For the 2,000 empowered individuals, it's more than aid—it's a launchpad for independence and community impact.