Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has empowered 1,000 residents with a total of ₦460 million under the state’s Eko Cares Financial Assistance Programme.
The cheques were presented to beneficiaries on Wednesday during an event organised by the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement at Agidingbi, Ikeja.
Beneficiaries received cheques ranging from ₦300,000 to ₦1.5 million each, depending on their individual needs, including support for small businesses, medical bills, school fees, rent, and assistance for persons with disabilities.
Speaking at the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said the initiative demonstrates the state government’s commitment to promoting inclusive growth and empowering vulnerable residents for self-reliance.
“This presentation of cheques to over 1,000 vulnerable Lagosians is not just a ceremony; it is a celebration of compassion and our shared humanity,” the governor said.
“Progress is not solely about infrastructure or numbers but about how deeply we care for one another.”
He added that the Eko Cares initiative reaffirms the essence of governance — providing comfort, hope, and opportunities for those who need them most.
Sanwo-Olu also urged the beneficiaries to see the support as a “seed of hope” and use it wisely to improve their lives and communities.
“In 2024 alone, we distributed ₦1.1 billion to 2,477 residents throughout the state.
“For this year, we have set aside ₦1.6 billion to assist an additional 2,850 beneficiaries,” he revealed, adding that the programme remains ongoing to reach more residents across Lagos.
The governor commended President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope reforms, describing them as crucial to Nigeria’s long-term growth, and called on Nigerians to support efforts aimed at national progress.
Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Afolabi Tajudeen, said the programme reflects the administration’s commitment to compassion, equity, and empowerment.
According to him, since the inception of the Eko Listens Financial Assistance Programme in 2020, the initiative has been a “beacon of hope” for thousands of Lagosians, ensuring no resident is left behind in the state’s development agenda.
Afolabi also highlighted other citizen-focused initiatives of the Office, such as the Civic Education and Sensitisation Programme in schools and the Citizens Gate Mobile App, describing them as evidence of a government that listens and acts with empathy.
Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the state government for alleviating their burdens, promising to make productive use of the financial assistance.
Launched in 2020, the Eko Cares initiative provides financial aid to Lagos residents to support healthcare, business start-ups, education, housing, and other essential needs.
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