The Rotary Club of Akure, on Tuesday 29th July, put smiles on the faces of some widows and less privileged women as part of its projects for the 2025–2026 Rotary year.

The beneficiaries, drawn from Akure and its environs, were each empowered with the sum of ₦50,000 to start or expand their existing businesses.

Addressing them at the Rotary Club Civic Centre, Igbatoro Road, the President of Rotary Club of Akure, Rotarian Gbadebo Oyewo, stated that the initiative was in fulfilment of one of the 3Ts of Rotary International, which include using their Talent, Treasure, and Time to positively impact society.

He emphasized that their mandate is to assist the unknown needy—those not expected to repay the gesture—but simply to help improve their financial status.

Oyewo urged the beneficiaries to use the funds judiciously to encourage the club to offer more opportunities. He also informed them of various interventions the club had carried out to assist individuals and communities, with more projects planned for the current Rotary year.

“This is just the first phase. Next month, we will enroll youths in vocational training to reduce the burden on parents and guardians,” he added.

The Governor of Rotary District 9126, Rotn Funke-Akpo Batife who graced the occasion, described the initiative as a commendable one that aligns with Rotary’s global mission—to give to people without expecting repayment.

“It falls under Rotary’s empowerment area, and my advice to the beneficiaries is to use it wisely. Fifty thousand naira may not seem like a large amount, but it is enough to start a small trade. Use it well so that we can extend the support to others, especially since it is non-refundable.”

Rotarian Dayo Omotoyinbo outlined the club’s various upcoming intervention initiatives for the year, each tied to monthly themes. He stressed that orderliness is a core principle of Rotary.

He urged the beneficiaries not to view the support as a national cake, reminding them that Rotarians are not politicians but concerned individuals passionate about the well-being of the vulnerable.

He appealed to them not to squander the money on frivolities, saying, “Don’t use it to eat or pay debts. We hope to hear of your progress in the near future—it will be a source of pride for members who recommended you for this support.”

He also thanked the president for initiating the project under the new Rotary year.

Some beneficiaries expressed their appreciation. Mrs. Mary Ewegbemi prayed for more strength and grace for members of the club to continue their good works in society.

Also responding, Mrs. Comfort Omoboyowa from Ile-Oluji, who revealed that her business went bankrupt after the death of her husband, expressed joy that there are still individuals outside politics willing to offer financial help.

On her part, Mrs. Babalola Dorcas commended the gesture and prayed that the benefactors would not suffer loss in any area of their lives.