The Osun State Government, under the leadership of Governor Ademola Adeleke, has again demonstrated its commitment to grassroots economic empowerment with the flag-off of the Imole Business Empowerment 2.0 programme, where 2,000 women and youths across the state benefited from direct cash grants aimed at supporting small-scale enterprises.
The event, which held in Osogbo, was organized by the Ministry of Cooperatives and Empowerment, and attended by top government officials, cooperative leaders, and beneficiaries from across the 30 local government areas of the state.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Cooperatives and Empowerment, Hon. Prince Bayo Ogungbangbe (FCSSM), described the initiative as another milestone in Governor Adeleke’s people-centered governance and inclusive development drive.
“It gives me great pleasure to stand before you today as we make another remarkable stride in empowering our people, uplifting households, and strengthening the economic base of our beloved Osun State. Today’s event is not just another ceremony; it is a bold statement of our unwavering commitment to the welfare of our citizens and to sustainable development,” he said.
The Commissioner lauded Governor Adeleke for his visionary leadership and continuous support for initiatives that promote self-reliance and economic growth at the grassroots level.
He noted that since the establishment of the ministry in July 2023, the government has rolled out several empowerment programmes designed to reach the most vulnerable groups across the state.
According to him, the Imole Cash Grant initiative is a continuation of the government’s broader empowerment framework, following the earlier empowerment of another 2,000 beneficiaries with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration certificates, Point of Sale (POS) terminals, and start-up grants to aid small business growth and sustainability.
“Your Excellency, the impact of your administration on the lives of our people is visible and commendable. On behalf of the beneficiaries and the ministry, I humbly appeal for the continuation of these empowerment efforts to ensure more of our citizens, particularly women and youths, achieve self-reliance, dignity, and economic independence,” he said.
Ogungbangbe further urged the beneficiaries to see the grants as a call to responsibility rather than a mere gift, advising them to invest the funds wisely and grow their enterprises into successful ventures that will, in turn, create jobs and boost the state’s economy.
“This is more than a grant—it is an opportunity to build a better future for yourselves and your families. Use it wisely, grow your businesses diligently, and become shining ambassadors of this noble initiative,” he added.
The Commissioner also reaffirmed the ministry’s resolve to continue implementing programmes that align with Governor Adeleke’s vision of building an inclusive and economically vibrant Osun State.
The Imole Business Empowerment 2.0 is part of Governor Adeleke’s broader economic revival agenda, targeted at improving living standards, encouraging entrepreneurship, and reducing poverty across Osun State.


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