In a significant move aimed at empowering local entrepreneurs and fostering inclusive economic growth, the leadership of Ayegbaju International Market, Osogbo organized a comprehensive business and health empowerment workshop for traders within the market. The event brought together financial institutions, healthcare professionals, and technology providers, marking a milestone in the market’s ongoing commitment to development and trader welfare.
The workshop, which was held on Thursday, September 11, 2025, focused on enhancing traders’ access to financial resources, improving access to electricity services through digital solutions, and raising awareness on key health issues affecting market participants.
Welcome Address by the Iyaloja of Ayegbaju Market
In her opening remarks, the Iyaloja of Ayegbaju Market, Alhaja Ibraheem Kuburat Jumoke (Omolere), welcomed all participants and commended the resource persons for dedicating their time and expertise to support the market community. She expressed optimism that the sessions would open new doors of opportunity for traders and help remove many of the challenges they face in their day-to-day operations.
Alhaja Jumoke used the opportunity to extend her heartfelt appreciation to key stakeholders who have consistently supported the growth of Ayegbaju Market. She lauded the Ataoja of Osogboland, HRM Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun (Larooye II), for his continuous involvement in ensuring the development of the market. She also praised the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, for providing an enabling environment for businesses to thrive and his unwavering support for the market’s advancement.
Furthermore, she acknowledged the contributions of the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Bunmi Jenyo, the Special Adviser on Market Development, Chief Mrs. Eniola Omotosho, and several other government officials and partners who have played instrumental roles in the market’s progress.
Union Bank Introduces Women’s Empowerment Grant and Child Savings Scheme
One of the key sessions of the workshop was led by representatives from Union Bank, Osogbo branch, who introduced the Alpha Empowerment Grant, a financial assistance initiative targeted at women entrepreneurs. The bank representatives encouraged market women to take advantage of this opportunity, which is designed to support women-led businesses and enhance their financial independence.
They also presented a Child Savings Account product, which allows parents to open savings accounts for their children. These accounts can be accessed by the children upon reaching the age of 18, promoting early financial literacy and long-term savings culture. Traders were urged to open accounts with the bank to benefit from these programs.
Unveiling of Electricity Token Payment Software
Another major highlight of the workshop was the unveiling of a new electricity token payment software designed to simplify electricity bill payments for shop owners in the market. Many traders have faced challenges in recharging their prepaid meters. The introduction of this software promises to reduce these bottlenecks by offering a stress-free, user-friendly solution to electricity token purchases.
The facilitator of the session provided a practical demonstration of how the application works, reassuring participants of its ease of use and the potential to significantly improve convenience and productivity in the market.
Health Awareness and Medical Outreach
Recognizing the importance of health to economic productivity, the workshop also featured a health awareness session facilitated by medical practitioners. Market men and women were educated on the importance of regular medical checkups, personal hygiene, and preventive healthcare. Attendees were encouraged to take proactive steps in managing their health to ensure sustained business activity and personal well-being.
The Ayegbaju International Market workshop marks another important step toward building a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous market community in Osogbo. By combining financial literacy, digital solutions, and health awareness, the market leadership continues to demonstrate its commitment to the holistic development of its traders.
The Iyaloja reaffirmed her call to development partners, government agencies, and private sector stakeholders to continue collaborating with the market, adding that “with collective effort, we can make Ayegbaju Market a shining model for commerce and community development in Osun State and beyond.”
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