As part of her sustained commitment to improve the welfare of women and vulnerable groups across the State, the Wife of the Kogi State Governor, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has extended her empowerment initiative to Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency, providing cash grants, food items and wrappers to more than 200 beneficiaries.
The intervention, which reflects the First Lady’s expanding grassroots-focused social support programme, is aimed at cushioning the effects of economic hardship, strengthening small-scale businesses and promoting social inclusion among indigent members of society.
Beneficiaries drawn from various communities across the constituency each received a ₦50,000 cash grant as well as food items and wrappers to support livelihoods and household needs.
Speaking during the presentation held at the palace of the Ohimegye Igu of Koton-Karfe, Hajia Sefinat Ododo said empowering women and supporting vulnerable citizens remain central to her vision of building stronger, more united and economically resilient communities across Kogi State.
She emphasized that women occupy a strategic position in society and that investing in their welfare translates directly into stronger families, peaceful communities and sustainable development.
“Our women are the pillars of our homes and communities. By intentionally prioritizing their welfare and bringing them together under a shared purpose, we are actively demonstrating that peace, harmony and mutual support are attainable across our state,” she said.
The First Lady stressed that society’s most vulnerable members must never be neglected, noting that every citizen deserves dignity, care and opportunities to thrive regardless of their economic circumstances.
“We cannot afford to abandon those who need us most. This outreach is not just about charity. It is a demonstration that every citizen of Kogi State matters, regardless of their socio-economic status,” she added.
Hajia Ododo called on well-meaning individuals, corporate organizations and development partners to complement government efforts by supporting initiatives that provide social safety nets and economic opportunities for vulnerable populations.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the First Lady, describing the intervention as timely and impactful. They noted that the ₦50,000 cash grants would help strengthen their small businesses, while the food support would ease financial pressures on their households.
They commended the wife of the Governor for her inclusive leadership style, noting that the empowerment programme reflected a genuine commitment to fostering unity and bringing people together across communities.
Earlier, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo paid a traditional homage on the Ohimegye Igu of Koton-Karfe, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Saidu Akawu Salihu, where she commended the monarch for his role in sustaining peace and harmony within his domain.
She noted that peace and unity remain critical foundations for meaningful development and reiterated the importance of traditional institutions as partners in community advancement.
In his remarks, the Ohimegye Igu praised the First Lady for her impactful humanitarian interventions, which he said have continued to uplift individuals, families and communities across the state.
He encouraged her to sustain the initiative, describing it as a source of hope and relief for many indigent citizens.
The Traditional Ruler also praised the Kogi State Government for ongoing developmental projects across key sectors, including healthcare, education, youth development and women empowerment.
Also speaking, the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. Folashade Ayoade Arike, and the Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Chief Abubakar Bashiru Gegu, highlighted several interventions of the administration, particularly support for traditional institutions and the renovation of the Ohimegye’s palace.
Chief Gegu reaffirmed the support of the people of Kogi Local Government Area and Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency for the development agenda of the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo while pledging continued cooperation towards the progress and prosperity of the state.
The empowerment programme underscored Hajia Sefinat Ododo’s growing role in advancing social welfare, economic empowerment and community development, while extending hope, dignity and opportunities to vulnerable families across Kogi State.
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