The Kogi State First Lady, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has empowered over 1,000 women and petty traders in Bassa Local Government Area (LGA) with a donation aimed at boosting their businesses and improving the livelihood among families.

The event, which took place at Oguma, headquarters of Bassa local government area, was a testament to the First Lady’s commitment to supporting women in the state.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady emphasized that empowering women is way of supporting households and communities, which in turn brings stability to society.

According to her, the gesture is part of her outreaches under the Ohunene Empowerment Initiative (OEI), a Non-Governmental Organization which focuses on uplifting the well-being of women, children, and vulnerable groups in the state.

She disclosed that the NGO is currently offering assistance to pregnant women and nursing mothers with delivery packages, which can be accessed at primary healthcares centres across the 21 local government areas in the state.

The First Lady encouraged women to continue to play their roles in shaping the future of their children, urging them to recommit to raising godly children in peace and love.

She further called for support for the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and assured that her doors remain open and would always come to the aid of women, children, and vulnerable groups.

She expressed confidence that Bassa local government, with its immense potential, would continue to add value to the future of Kogi State.

Each beneficiary across the 10 wards of Bassa local government received the sum of 50 thousand naira in cash plus clothing and food items.

The empowerment programme is a significant step towards promoting economic growth and social well-being in the state, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of the beneficiaries and their families.