By Olivia Ambrose, JKNewsMedia Intern
PRINCE DAPO Abiodun, Ogun State Governor, has highlighted the state’s investment potential at the Africa Investment Forum (AIF) Market Days in Rabat, Morocco.
During his meeting with Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), the governor stressed the state’s desire to attract foreign investors for a range of strategic projects.
Abiodun identified key sectors ripe for investment, including livestock value addition, timber processing, renewable energy, and the power sector.
The governor also mentioned ongoing efforts to establish an automotive assembly plant in the state and extend the Lagos red and blue rail lines, with plans for expansions from Agbado to Kajola and Okokomaiko to Agbara/Lusada.
The Purpleline rail project was also emphasised as an important infrastructure development.
The governor expressed his appreciation for the AfDB’s support in connecting regional governments with potential investors, stating that the partnership would play a pivotal role in driving Ogun State’s economic growth and sustainable development.
Over N3Bn Disbursed to 54,000 Women in Ogun State for Livelihood Grants
Meanwhile, Ogun State has allocated over N3 billion to support 54,000 women through the Individual Livelihood Grants under the Nigeria for Women Project.
The disbursement aims to empower women and remove barriers to their participation in economic activities.
Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who chairs the Steering Committee for the project, announced the milestone during the Livelihood Collective Operational handover at the Obas Complex in Abeokuta.
The initiative has already formed over 3,700 Affinity Groups, benefiting over 67,000 women across Ijebu North-East, Odeda, Yewa North, and Ikenne Local Government Areas.
Additionally, 61 Collectives have been established, impacting over 11,000 women engaged in agriculture and other sectors.
These women have undergone training in business, financial education, gender awareness, and life skills.
Salako-Oyedele highlighted the role of the Ogun State government in improving women’s economic standing and praised the collaboration with the federal government for its support.
The Deputy Governor also acknowledged the success of the Oko’owo Dapo programme, which reached over 100,000 additional women.
Hon. Adijat Adeleye, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, reported that the Nigeria for Women Project has distributed over N5 million to Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) in Ogun.
Furthermore, WAG members have collectively saved over N1 billion.
The event also marked the handover of 61 hubs, including rice and maize processing hubs, cassava production hubs, and tailoring hubs.
The project is set to create life-changing opportunities for women in Ogun State, fostering entrepreneurship and economic independence.
