The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, empowered 1,000 residents with N460 million through the Eko Cares Programme.
The fund was disbursed at the official presentation of cheques to beneficiaries of the Financial Assistance Programme (Eko Cares), organised by the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement at Agidingbi, Lagos.
During the event, different categories of beneficiaries received cheques ranging from N300,000 to N1.5 million, based on individual needs, for businesses, health, school fees, rent and people with disabilities.
Sanwo-Olu expressed satisfaction with the process, enjoined the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the financial aid to empower themselves for self-reliance.
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The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, said the Eko Cares initiative reaffirms the true essence of governance, which is to provide comfort, hope, and opportunities for those who need them the most.
He noted that the reforms of President Bola Tinubu's administration through the Renewed Hope Initiative are essential to uplifting the future of the country; hence, the need for everyone to lend their support for a greater Nigeria, with a call on beneficiaries to see the aid as a seed of hope.
"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. It serves as a reminder that progress is not solely about infrastructure or numbers but about how deeply we care for one another.
Through initiatives like this, we strengthen the social contract between the government and its citizens, a relationship built on trust, empathy, and inclusion," he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the initiative is making a real difference in the lives of thousands across the state, noting that its aim is to help residents tackle economic hurdles, foster inclusion and stability and bring back hope and dignity.
"In 2024 alone, we distributed N1.1 billion to 2,477 residents throughout the state. For this year, we have set aside N1.6 billion to assist an additional 2,850 beneficiaries, and these programmes are still running, with even more residents ready to receive support. This is our commitment to making social intervention inclusive and impactful," he said.
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Speaking earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr Afolabi Tajudeen, noted that the initiative embodies a deeper commitment of the Lagos State Government to compassion, equity, and empowerment, ensuring that every resident has a fair chance to thrive.
According to Afolabi, since the inception of the Eko Listens Financial Assistance Programme in 2020, the initiative has served as a beacon of hope for thousands of vulnerable Lagosians, reaffirming that the state government is committed to the enduring social contract that no resident will be left behind in the journey of Lagos State's development.
