6 days Ago By Sodiq Ojuroungbe
Sodiq Ojuroungbe In line with its mandate to strengthen families and empower communities, SOS Children’s Villages has donated N240 million and food materials to female entrepreneurs across Oshodi-Isolo communities in Lagos. The grant was distributed via its Village Savings and Loan Associations initiative to eight groups including Women of Grace, Ife ati Anu. Glory of God, Bond Unity, Endless Love, God’s Time, Orisunmibare, and Unity.
Speaking at the ceremony, the National Director of SOS Children’s Villages, Eghosa Erhumwunse said the goal was to strengthen women’s entrepreneurship skills and contribute to the well-being of the children. According to him, the VSLA’s structure has the power to transform lives and uplift entire communities, noting that the groups of women leading initiatives are helping to strengthen the very fabric of their neighborhoods. “We are helping to establish a sustainable livelihood and nurturing environment where children can grow with security and opportunities irrespective of religion, gender, political alignment, culture, background, or disability.
“Each new business represents a family’s pathway to a brighter future, where they can independently support their children’s development. The results are tangible, stable incomes, independence, and the ability to invest in their children’s education, health, and overall well-being,” he said. “Whether it’s selling rice, eggs, cooking oil, or other essential items, each business venture embodies a commitment to economic resilience and community growth.
This collective strength fosters a stable and supportive environment for children to thrive,” he said. On his part, the Adele Oba of Isolo, High Chief Saliu Wasiu Arowooye lauded SOS Children’s Villages for their support of women in the community. “For this huge financial empowerment, we will make sure the beneficiaries don’t mismanage it.
We hope to give positive feedback to the funders at the end of the year when an audit will be carried out. When a woman is empowered, we can beat our chests for multiplication.” One of the beneficiaries, Olatunbosun Sherifat, who is the president of Unity VSLA said business grants will enable her to expand her food market.
“We are grateful to SOS Children’s Villages; we must not waste this N30 million but use it to expand our businesses,” she said. Copyright PUNCH All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected] Tags Gender Gender equity Gender inclusion Lagos State SOS Children's Villages Women empowerment.
