The Councillor representing Baale Ward in Coker-Aguda Local Council Development Area, LCDA, Hon. Olaiya Adekunle, has empowered 250 women in the ward with a cash grant of ₦20,000 each as part of an appreciation and grassroots empowerment initiative.
The programme, held in Baale Ward, was aimed at recognising the contributions of women to the electoral success of the All Progressives Congress, APC, during the last elections and supporting vulnerable residents engaged in small-scale businesses.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Olaiya said the initiative was designed to reward loyalty, dedication, and grassroots participation, particularly by women who mobilised support for the party during the electioneering period.
According to him, beneficiaries were selected through community structures, including Community Development Associations (CDAs), religious bodies, artisans’ groups, and ward leaders.
“Our women stood by us during the elections. They mobilised, they supported, and they remained committed. It is only right that we give back and put smiles on their faces,” he said.
The councillor noted that the empowerment programme, which targets a total of 500 residents in phases, was funded through personal resources, support from friends and family, and contributions from well-wishers.
He also expressed appreciation to the Executive Chairman of Coker-Aguda LCDA, Hon Ogidan Azeez Owolabi, for his continuous support, noting that grassroots development remains a shared responsibility.
Hon. Olaiya reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining people-oriented programmes, stressing that rewarding grassroots support is key to strengthening democratic participation and community development.
In her remarks, Director-General of the National Senior Citizens Centre and Apex APC Leader in Coker-Aguda LCDA, Medinat Akinyemi-Obe, who was represented by her deputy, Ahmeed Dada-Nla, commended the gesture, noting that women’s development translates into national development.
Also speaking, the Bashorun of Ojora and Iganmu Kingdom, Akeem Ojora, also commended the initiative, while describing it as a true demonstration of grassroots governance, urging other legislators to emulate the gesture.
Several beneficiaries at the event expressed gratitude for the gesture, describing it as timely and impactful.
Mrs. Seyi Ajibola, one of the beneficiaries, said the cash support would help her improve her family welfare and small business.
“I am very happy. I will use the money to support my household and improve my trade,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Reverend Mrs. Peace Sunday, JP, described the programme as unprecedented in the ward, praising the councillor for personally organising the empowerment.
“Since 1999, this is the first time we are seeing a councillor single-handedly empower people in this manner. This ₦20,000 will go a long way for many of us who are into business,” she said.