IEN Launches 20,000 Women Empowerment Initiative in Ibadan -

The Ibadan Entrepreneurs Network (IEN) has launched the 20,000 Women Empowerment Initiative to equip women across the South-West with practical vocational and entrepreneurial skills aimed at promoting financial independence and reducing unemployment.

Speaking at the launch in Ibadan, the Convener of the Ibadan Entrepreneurs Network, Chief Executive Officer of the Incubation Hub, Managing Director of IEN Business Academy, and Co-convener of Sherise Africa, Dr. Oyenike Adeleke, said the initiative is designed to identify, train, mentor, empower and showcase women through skills acquisition in areas including fashion designing, hairdressing, adire making, cake production, soap making, makeup artistry and other vocational trades.

The APC Oyo State Women Leader, Dr. Mrs. Felicia Opatunde, described the programme as a timely intervention that would empower women economically and encourage self-reliance. She urged beneficiaries to remain committed to the training and maximise the opportunity to build sustainable livelihoods.
Also speaking, the APC governorship candidate in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that create jobs and empower women. He also donated ₦10 million to support the programme and its beneficiaries.

A beneficiary at the event expressed appreciation to the organisers, particularly Dr. Oyenike Adeleke, describing the initiative as a life-changing opportunity that would improve the lives of many women.

The event was attended by the Deputy APC Oyo State Women Leader, Hon. Fatima Hassan, Hon. Dapo Lam, APC stalwarts, women leaders from the eleven local government areas in Ibadan, entrepreneurs, development partners and other stakeholders.