By Sam Biodun Ogundipe in London

The Wife of the Governor of Kogi State, Hajia Sefinat Ahmed Usman Ododo, has empowered 500 women and vulnerable persons across Okunland with cash grants of ₦50,000 each and distributed food items as part of efforts to improve livelihoods and cushion the effects of economic hardship.

The empowerment programme on Saturday which attracted beneficiaries from the five local government areas in Okunland, was held in Kabba, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, and formed part of the First Lady’s commitment to supporting women, strengthening families and promoting economic inclusion at the grassroots.

Speaking at the event, Hajia Sefinat Ododo said the initiative was designed to provide direct support to women, widows and other vulnerable groups, enabling them to improve their businesses, cater for their families and become more economically self-reliant.

She noted that women remain critical stakeholders in community development and nation-building, stressing that empowering them is one of the most effective ways of fighting poverty and improving the welfare of families.

According to her, the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo remains committed to implementing people-focused programmes and policies that directly impact the lives of citizens across all parts of Kogi State.

“Our women are hardworking and resilient. When we support them, we strengthen homes, build stronger communities and create opportunities for sustainable development. This empowerment programme is our way of giving hope and helping our women achieve greater economic stability,” she said.

Hajia Ododo further appealed to the people to sustain their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, stating that the Renewed Hope Agenda is laying a strong foundation for economic growth, social development and national prosperity.

She expressed confidence that the reforms and programmes of the Federal Government would continue to yield positive results and improve the lives of Nigerians.

Beneficiaries of the programme expressed appreciation to the First Lady for the intervention, describing it as timely, impactful and life-changing.

They pledged to make effective use of the support received and commended her for remembering women and vulnerable groups at a time of economic challenges.

Earlier, Hajia Sefinat Ododo paid a courtesy visit to the Obaro of Kabba, His Royal Majesty Oba Solomon Dele Owoniyi, where she received royal blessings and reaffirmed the commitment of the Kogi State Government to supporting traditional institutions as vital partners in promoting peace, unity and development.

The empowerment programme further underscored the First Lady’s dedication to improving the welfare of women and vulnerable groups, while extending hope and economic opportunities to families across Okunland