The Ogun State government has reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to empowering vulnerable communities and promoting inclusive growth.
The Hon. Commissioner for Finance, and Chief Economic Adviser, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo made this known during a meeting with the World Bank team led by Ms. Pamela Tuiyott and other stakeholders, at the Ministry of Finance Conference room, Oke- Mosan, Abeokuta. He highlighted the collaborative strides made in addressing social challenges, particularly those affecting the most vulnerable citizens.
Okubadejo, spoke on the state's ongoing efforts in supporting its vulnerable populations, adding that the role of initiatives such as the Nigeria for Women and Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), which are funded by the World Bank have had direct impact on improving the lives of vulnerable groups, with a focus on alleviating poverty and combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
"Ogun State has made significant strides through carefully designed social safety net programmes. These programmes are helpful in empowering and protecting those most in need, particularly women and marginalised groups.
These reforms are facilitating access to credit and grants for small businesses and vulnerable individuals, contributing to economic independence and breaking the cycles of poverty" he noted.
According to him, “Ogun State has placed a strong focus on women and marginalized groups, particularly through the expansion of its Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) which are now integrated into Women Development Centres, with the aim of providing training for women and youth in high-demand trades. These initiatives are not only aimed at empowering women economically, but also to reshape societal norms and creating safe spaces for them to thrive”.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, called for continued collaboration among stakeholders, to ensure the state's development goals translate into meaningful outcomes for its citizens.
She emphasised that the State is not only growing economically, but also dedicated to making sure that the growth benefits its most vulnerable populations.
In his remark, the Commissioner for budget and planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, noted that the gender advocacy project resonates well with the state goals, as it fosters inclusion, diversity and equity.
In the same vein, Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Focal Coordinator for West Africa, Ms. Pamela Tuiyott from the World Bank, praised Ogun State's commitment to the Sexual Assault Recovery Centres (SARC). She stressed the importance of building the capacity of SARC officers and sharing lessons from global best practices in GBV service provision.
She expressed confidence that continued engagement would lead to greater impact, as well as ensuring quality services for women and other beneficiaries in Ogun State.
