Oba Matemilola Advocates Investment in Youths and Women

Oba Saka Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom in Abeokuta, called for greater investment in youths and women as a strategy to alleviate poverty and improve security in Nigeria. This appeal was made during a press conference on Monday, coinciding with his fourth coronation anniversary and the presentation of the Owu Hope Initiative's impact report.

He identified poverty as a significant challenge in Nigeria and emphasized the need for sustainable empowerment over temporary financial aid. The Owu Hope Initiative, which focuses on education, health, enterprise development, and environmental sustainability, has reached 12,606 beneficiaries in the first quarter of the year, providing ₦20 million in scholarships to 397 students.

The initiative also introduced a school feeding program for 165 vulnerable pupils. Additionally, Oba Matemilola highlighted the importance of community involvement in security, detailing bi-monthly security meetings with various local law enforcement and community representatives to enhance intelligence gathering and participation.