Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, today disbursed ₦460 million cheques to 1,000 vulnerable Lagosians at the Blue Roof, Agidingbi Road, Ikeja.
The Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat made the Official Presentation of Cheques to Beneficiaries of the Financial Assistance Programme (Eko Cares), organized by the Office of Political, Legislative & Civic Engagement (OPL&CE), noted that the Eko Cares initiative reaffirms the true essence of governance, which is to provide comfort, hope, and opportunities for those who need it the most.
According to him, “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,” said the Governor, who reiterated that his administration will keep working towards a Lagos where compassion shapes policies, where hard work meets opportunity, and where no citizen is left behind.
He added that the disbursement is not the first time exercise by his administration and won’t be the last, assuring that more beneficiaries will receive their cheques before the end of the year, ‘as the government will continue to support those who need it the most’.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the initiative is making a real difference in the lives of thousands across the state, noting that the initiative is to help residents tackle economic hurdles, foster inclusion and stability, and bring back hope and dignity.
The Governor noted that the initiative exemplifies what it means to have responsive and compassionate leadership, along with inclusive governance, as the state government continues its fight against poverty. He added that his administration is deeply in tune with the needs of its residents, which is why the government has been rolling out a variety of social intervention programs that truly bring relief to families and communities across Lagos.
His words, “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, and these programs are still running, with even more residents ready to receive support. This is our ongoing commitment to making social intervention inclusive and impactful,” he said.
The Governor admonished the beneficiaries to see the government support beyond just financial aid, elucidating that it is a seed of hope, and it should be used wisely for their betterment. “Let it ignite your next breakthrough, bolster your business, or bring peace to your home. The government can open doors, but it is your determination that keeps them wide open,” he concluded.
In his welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative & Civic Engagement, Dr. Afolabi Abiodun 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 Dr. 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.
While highlighting different citizen-centric initiatives embarked on by the Office, which include Civic Education and Sensitization Programme in schools, the CitizensGate Mobile App, among others, the Special Adviser noted that the initiatives stand as a testament to the present administration’s commitment to listen with intent, respond with compassion, and act with purpose, adding that it exemplifies a government that meets its people at the point of their needs.
