Source: Vanguard
As part of the activities marking the 2012 International Women's Day celebration, wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun has distributed to some women in the state items secured at prices lower than the market rate with a 12-month interest-free repayment period, while some were given distributorship rights in various companies.

Speaking in Abeokuta at the occasion, Mrs. Amosun described the International Women's Day as an "opportunity for global community to celebrate the contributions of women" to families, communities and nations, adding that the day gave the womenfolk a chance "to reflect on issues and challenges" facing women worldwide.

She said the United Nations has adopted "Empower Rural Women - End Hunger and Poverty" as the theme for this year and in support of the theme Ogun State was celebrating the day with a desire to "UPLIFTing Women," noting that empowerment of women was vital in addressing social, economic and political challenges in the state.

According to her, "We have chosen this day to empower our women by giving them items like sewing machines, grinding machines, freezers, generating sets, hair dryers and among others to enable them establish a small scale business of their own with a hope of generating income and improving their livelihoods.

This is why we believe that empowering our women will translate into an improved society, because women play a key role in the quest for society's growth and development. We also acknowledge the contribution of women to the peace and security in our state."

Mrs. Amosun paid special tribute to those in rural areas, saying "we'll continue to identify with your cause and we shall always strive to improve your situation."

The state governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, who attended the event, commended the womenfolk for their contribution to the peace and security in the state. He urged them to see themselves as equal partners in achieving sustainable development, peace and security by contributing their quota in the mission to rebuild the state.

Receiving the items from Mrs. Amosun, the President, Ogun State Cooperative Federation, Asiwaju Adetokunbo Osisanya lauded the governor's wife for putting in place the empowerment programme, saying "it was first of its kind in the state and this will go a long way to boost the living standard of women."