The Lagos State Government has empowered more than one thousand residents through the Eko Listens Financial Assistance Programme, aimed at providing financial relief and promoting self-reliance among vulnerable groups in the state.
At the event held in Ikeja, beneficiaries received cheques ranging from ₦300,000 to ₦1.5 million, depending on individual needs, covering areas such as business support, healthcare, rent, school fees, and assistance for people with disabilities.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, expressed satisfaction with the process and urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the funds to improve their livelihoods.
He disclosed that ₦1.6 billion was earmarked for the programme in 2025, higher than the ₦1.4 billion distributed in 2024. Sanwo-Olu noted that some reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative are crucial to uplifting the nation’s future, calling on Nigerians to support the collective effort toward a greater Nigeria.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Tajudeen Afolabi, described the initiative as a tangible expression of inclusiveness and empowerment by the Sanwo-Olu administration.
“Eko Cares is not just about financial support; it is a deliberate effort to restore hope and dignity to Lagosians,” Dr. Afolabi said.
Some of the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the state government for alleviating their financial burdens and pledged to use the funds responsibly.
Launched in 2020, the Eko Cares Financial Aid Initiative was designed to support Lagosians with improved access to healthcare, start-up capital, education, and housing.