LASG PRESENTS CHEQUES TO ANOTHER 626 BENEFICIARIES UNDER EKO CARES FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMME
The Lagos State Government, through the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, has presented financial assistance cheques to 626 beneficiaries under the Eko Cares Financial Assistance Programme, reaffirming its commitment to promoting social inclusion and improving the welfare of vulnerable residents.
The cheque presentation ceremony was held recently at the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Secretariat, Alausa-Ikeja.
Addressing the beneficiaries, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen, stated that the Eko Cares Financial Assistance Programme was established to provide relief and support to vulnerable residents, including small-scale business owners, persons living with disabilities, and individuals facing financial challenges.
He noted that the initiative reflects the Lagos State Government’s commitment to ensuring that no resident is left behind in its drive for inclusive development and improved social welfare.
Dr. Tajudeen disclosed that a total of 626 beneficiaries would receive financial assistance during the presentation, describing it as the highest number recorded in a single disbursement this year. He urged recipients to utilise the funds strictly for their intended purposes, particularly in expanding businesses, addressing pressing needs, or pursuing productive ventures that will improve their livelihoods. He further added that the Office will continue to monitor the impact of the intervention to ensure it achieves its objectives.
He explained that the initiative has continued to reach deserving individuals across the 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of the State. He emphasised that this demonstrates the Lagos State Government’s commitment to implementing people-centred initiatives that promote social inclusion, economic empowerment, and improved living standards.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Engr. Sholabomi Shasore, encouraged beneficiaries to enrol in the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme, describing it as an affordable and sustainable means of accessing quality healthcare.
She explained that registration under the scheme would significantly reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses and enable the Lagos State Government to optimise healthcare spending while channelling more resources into other social intervention programmes that directly benefit residents. She therefore urged beneficiaries to take advantage of the scheme and other government initiatives aimed at improving their welfare and overall quality of life.
As part of the programme, beneficiaries were sensitised on various Lagos State Government policies, programmes, and social intervention initiatives designed to improve their quality of life.
The session provided information on empowerment opportunities, healthcare services, educational support, employment initiatives, civic engagement platforms, and other government programmes available to residents to enhance their socio-economic well-being.
Expressing his appreciation, one of the beneficiaries, Mr. Adebayo Hammed Olanrewaju, said he learnt about the programme through a community engagement exercise in his area. He explained that he applied for the assistance after his shop, which served as his source of livelihood, was burgled, resulting in significant financial losses. He described the support as timely, noting that it would enable him to revive his small-scale business.
Another beneficiary, Mr. Kennedy Eze-Nwachukwu, also expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government and the Office, stating that the financial aid would support his poultry business. He encouraged other residents to take advantage of the programme, noting that it is genuine and impactful.
Similarly, Mrs. Chindinma Nzeka stated that the assistance would be used to offset her son’s medical bills and support her family in establishing a small-scale business to sustain their livelihood.
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