A total of 4,117 Lagos residents have benefited from financial assistance amounting to ₦1.6 billion within one year under the Eko Cares, Eko Listens initiative of the Lagos State Government.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Tajudeen Afolabi, disclosed this during the presentation of cheques to 517 beneficiaries at the Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja.
Dr. Afolabi noted that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains committed to easing the economic burdens of residents by supporting vulnerable individuals, regardless of their political affiliation, ethnic background, or religion.
According to him, eligibility for support only requires proof of residency through a LASSRA card, a valid NIN, and a clear statement of the financial need.
Once verified, applicants are contacted and funded.
He urged beneficiaries to use the assistance responsibly, warning against wasteful spending.
“This money is not a loan.
Don’t use it for frivolities.
Invest in your small business, pay school fees, rent, or medical bills, just as you stated in your request.
It won’t solve all problems, but it will ease your burden.
Don’t disappoint the Governor,” he said.
Beneficiaries received cheques ranging from ₦300,000 to ₦1.5 million based on their assessed needs.
Many expressed gratitude, saying they once doubted the sincerity of the initiative.
They pledged to channel the funds into their various businesses, including content creation, petty trading, fashion design, and towards pressing personal needs such as rent, school fees, and hospital bills.
“We are grateful. We used to think it wasn’t real, but now we know the Lagos State Government is genuinely committed to residents.
Thank you, Governor Sanwo-Olu,” one beneficiary said.
Dr. Afolabi added that over 1,000 more residents are expected to benefit before the end of the year.
Reporting by Yemisi Dada