In a strategic move to strengthen community collaboration and deepen grassroots support for women empowerment initiatives, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Peju Babafemi, alongside the State Project Coordinating Unit of the Ekiti Nigeria for Women Project (EKNFWP-SU), has paid a courtesy visit to the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe.
The visit came as the programme is set to commence in Ado Local Government Area, covering Ado Central, Ado West, and Ado North Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
Addressing the Ewi-in-Council, Hon Babafemi explained that the Nigeria for Women Project is designed to enhance the livelihoods of women across Ekiti State through improved access to financial literacy, enterprise development, and sustainable livelihood support programmes.
She emphasized the critical role of traditional institutions in mobilizing grassroots participation and ensuring the overall success of the initiative.
“The importance of royal support and community collaboration cannot be overemphasized, as the success of this project largely depends on active participation at the grassroots”. She stated.
Also speaking, the State Project Coordinator, Mrs Oluwatoyin Familoni, noted that the programme is focused on equipping women with practical skills, expanding their access to economic opportunities, and strengthening their capacity to contribute meaningfully to household and community development.
Familoni added that the initiative will facilitate the formation of Women Affinity Groups (WAGs), which are designed to promote unity, encourage a strong savings culture, and support the growth of women-led businesses.
In his response on behalf of the monarch, the Ewi-in-Council commended the initiative and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting programmes that uplift women and promote socio-economic development.
The Council also assured the delegation of the palace’s readiness to mobilize women across the community and ensure the successful implementation of the project in Ado Local Government Area.