Empowerment Jamboree in Somolu as Council Chief empowers 5th Batch of 1000 petty traders with N50,000 Cash Incentive

It was a lively and celebratory atmosphere on Thursday, October 24th, 2024, as the Executive Chairman, Hon. AbdulHamed Salawu, popularly known as ‘Dullar,’ rolled out the fifth batch of his N50,000 cash incentive to 1,000 petty traders.

The event, held at the old Somolu secretariat, saw the venue filled to its capacity with enthusiastic residents and well-wishers who came to witness the empowerment of beneficiaries. Hon. ‘Dullar’, known for his commitment to grassroots development, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to providing economic relief to those in need, particularly in the face of the financial challenges posed by inflation and high cost of living not leaving out infrastructural development.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Salawu highlighted the importance of the cash incentive in boosting the local economy. “We understand that small-scale traders are the backbone of our economy. By empowering them with this cash incentive, we are not only supporting their businesses but also ensuring that they can contribute meaningfully to the community’s overall development.

He further noted that the previous four editions of the programme distributed N110 million to 4,000 residents. He expressed pride in how these funds have helped strengthen businesses and uplift families in Somolu.

In addition to financial aid, Hon. Dullar highlighted ongoing infrastructure developments, such as new interlocking roads and solar-powered streetlights aimed at improving safety and mobility. He also mentioned the soon-to-be-commissioned Glass-laced New Somolu Local Government Administrative Complex.

The traders, many of whom have faced economic hardship in recent times, expressed gratitude to the council chairman for his continued efforts to uplift their businesses. Some beneficiaries shared how the N50,000 incentive would help them restock goods, expand their businesses, and as well settle some financial obligations.

The empowerment programme, now in its fifth phase, has already positively impacted 5,000 traders across Somolu since its inception. The initiative is part of the larger goal to provide economic relief and create opportunities for traders to become more self-sufficient. Hon. Salawu assured attendees that the program would continue until a significant number of Somolu residents had been reached.

Meanwhile, the cash incentive aligns with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda, a strategic framework focused on improving the quality of life for Lagosians while Hon. Salawu’s administration continues to gain praise from both residents and community leaders for its people-centric policies and commitment to grassroots empowerment.

Hon. Dullar concluded his speech with praises for President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms and Governor Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to community development in Lagos State.

The event, monitored by Comrade Ishaq Buna-led Human Rights Monitoring Agenda (HURMA), was held and attended by community, religious, and APC political leaders some of which include the Somolu APC Apex leader; Apostle Peter Oyewusi, the APC Apex women leader; Hon. Mrs. Abosede Ogunlaja, Immediate Past Council Chairman; Olorogun Gbolahan Bagostowe, the former Sole Administrator; Hon. Williams Lawanson, and the Vice Chairman; Hon. Adekunle Ekiyemi-Odujobi as well as Hon. Yomi Osunkoya led Somolu Legislative Council members.

Others also present at the event were the Grand Chief Imam of Somolu-Bariga, Sheikh Boonyamin Dabiri, alongside the CAN representative and other dignitaries.