In a significant move to boost economic growth and empower women, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, FNCS, has distributed N250,000 cash grants, laptops, and other materials to over 100 beneficiaries of a three-day digital training and ICT empowerment program in the Ogun Central Senatorial District. The initiative, part of the Zonal Intervention Projects (ZIPs), targeted women-owned Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), equipping them with the skills and tools needed to thrive in the digital economy.
The program, which focused on enterprise development and digital technology adoption, attracted participants from six local government areas: Abeokuta South, Abeokuta North, Obafemi-Owode, Ewekoro, Ifo, and Odeda. The training aimed to enhance the competitiveness of female entrepreneurs in an increasingly digital marketplace, providing them with practical knowledge to grow their businesses.
During the closing ceremony, Senator Salisu emphasized the importance of empowering women as a catalyst for economic growth. “This initiative is not just about providing tools; it is about creating opportunities for women to excel in their businesses and contribute meaningfully to the economy,” he stated.
The event was graced by notable personalities, including Mrs. Rashidat Salisu, Wife of Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu; Engr. Babatunde Akeem Adesina, Director-General of the SAS Campaign Organization and Special Adviser to the Governor on Works and Infrastructure; Hon. Folasade Adeyemo, PhD; Hon. Lanre Oyegbola, Chairman of Odeda Local Government and Abeokuta North Local Government respectively; Former APC Chairman in Odeda Local Government, Pastor Isaac Onaolapo; a former two-time member of the Ogun State House of Assembly and Secretary of the Champaign Council of SAS, Hon. Ganiyu Oyedeji; Former Chairman of Ewekoro Local Government, Hon. Isikulu Makinde; Deaconess Mofoluke Soremekun, Former Chairman of Orile Ilugun LCDA; and Dr. Olufemi Akinbile, among others.
Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude, noting that the training and resources would significantly boost their business operations. One participant remarked, “At the end of the 3 days of training, the beneficiaries get a certificate too. This program has opened new doors for us. With the skills and tools provided, we are better equipped to compete in today’s digital world.”
The initiative underscores Senator Salisu’s commitment to education, youth development, and economic empowerment in Ogun State. By equipping female entrepreneurs with digital skills and resources, the program aims to foster innovation, increase productivity, and drive sustainable development in the region.
This event marks another milestone in Senator Salisu’s ongoing efforts to champion progress and empowerment in Ogun Central. Over the years, the senator has spearheaded numerous projects aimed at improving the lives of his constituents. These include the construction and rehabilitation of roads across the senatorial district, the provision of scholarships to indigent students, and the establishment of skill acquisition centres to empower youths and women. His previous initiatives also include the distribution of agricultural inputs to farmers, the installation of solar-powered streetlights in rural communities, and the facilitation of healthcare outreach programs to provide free medical services to underserved populations.
Senator Salisu’s dedication to uplifting his constituents has earned him widespread recognition and solidified his reputation as a leader committed to sustainable development and inclusive growth. The latest empowerment program for female entrepreneurs further demonstrates his unwavering focus on creating opportunities and driving progress in Ogun Central.
