In a groundbreaking demonstration of women's economic potential, Ogun State has emerged as a national leader in community-driven development by successfully registering 2,000 Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) in just six weeks.

The remarkable achievement was revealed by Mrs. Bolanle Fadairo, State Project Coordinator for the Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up (NFWP-SU), highlighting the state's strategic commitment to grassroots female empowerment. The project's impressive statistics were showcased through the national Project Management Information System platform, revealing a comprehensive approach to women's economic inclusion.

Breaking down the group registrations by local government areas, Fadairo shared detailed insights: Ijebu-Ode led with 760 groups (38% of total), followed by Ifo Local Government with 569 groups (28.45%), Sagamu Local Government with 378 groups (18.9%), and Ado-Odo/Ota with 293 groups (14.64%). This distributed approach demonstrates targeted community mobilization and strategic engagement across diverse regional landscapes.

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, emphasized the transformative power of these Women Affinity Groups. 'These groups are the backbone of our empowerment strategy,' she explained. 'They create platforms for trust, collective savings, peer learning, and accountability, enabling women to access financial literacy, business support, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.'

Governor Dapo Abiodun's administration has been particularly praised for its proactive stance on women's development. Adeleye described the governor's approach as a practical embodiment of the 'He for She' principle, supporting women's empowerment through concrete actions rather than mere rhetoric.

The project, initially launched in 2018, has gained significant momentum under the current administration. By strategically collaborating across multiple government ministries—including Finance, Women Affairs and Social Development, and Budget and Planning—Ogun State has created a comprehensive ecosystem supporting women's economic advancement.

As neighboring states continue to study Ogun's successful model, the state stands poised to become a national reference point for inclusive, women-focused development. The project's success underscores a powerful narrative: when women are empowered, entire communities transform.