The Executive Chairman of Kosofe Local Government Area, Barrister Moyosore Adedoyin Ogunlewe, on Monday took the Kosofe Cares ₦100 Million Empowerment Scheme to its grand finale with the disbursement of ₦25 million to 250 youths at the Council Secretariat, Lagos.

The empowerment initiative, championed by Barr. Ogunlewe, was implemented in four strategic phases to ensure inclusive economic growth and direct grassroots impact across the local government. Since its commencement on November 17, the scheme has empowered 1,000 residents, with ₦25 million allocated to each phase, culminating in a total investment of ₦100 million.

At the youth-focused phase, the Chairman, represented on the occasion by Hon. Fatai Gbadebo, immediate past Secretary to the Local Government (SLG), described the initiative as a deliberate investment in human capital rather than a handout.

He noted that the youth component was designed to unlock creativity, entrepreneurship and job creation among young people who represent the future of Kosofe.

According to the address, the first phase of the scheme catered to the general public across the seven wards of Kosofe, providing financial relief to households. The second phase, held on November 25, empowered artisans and tradesmen whose skills sustain the local economy, while the third phase, conducted on December 8, focused on widows in recognition of their resilience and economic contributions. The final youth phase saw ₦25 million shared among 250 beneficiaries.

The Chairman urged beneficiaries to utilise the funds wisely by starting or expanding businesses, acquiring skills and creating employment opportunities for others.

He stressed that the empowerment support comes with a responsibility to succeed, contribute to community development and serve as inspiration to other youths.

Barr. Ogunlewe further noted that the empowerment scheme aligns with the grassroots development vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the THEMES+ Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reflecting his administration’s commitment to inclusive prosperity.

He added that empowering 1,000 residents with ₦100 million demonstrates that governance at the local level can be compassionate, accountable and transformative.

Meanwhile, the Council Leader, Hon. Femi Oyesile, addressed rumours suggesting that the empowerment scheme lacked legislative approval. He dismissed the claims, stating that the widespread benefits enjoyed by constituents clearly show legislative backing.

He reaffirmed the full support of the Legislative for Barr. Ogunlewe and disclosed that even larger empowerment initiatives are being planned, adding that the Chairman’s achievements are visible across communities in Kosofe Local Government Area.

In her remarks, the Council Manager commended Barr. Ogunlewe for his people-oriented leadership, describing the scheme as one that directly impacts residents at the grassroots. She assured participants that more empowerment programmes would be introduced in the coming year and advised beneficiaries to use the funds judiciously.

The CDC Chairman, Hon. Segun Babatunde also praised the Chairman’s passion for youth development, noting that the decision to dedicate the final phase to youths clearly reflects his commitment to securing the future of Kosofe. He urged beneficiaries to make productive use of the opportunity.

Speaking on the recent empowerment initiative, Comrade Adebayo Isiaka, Deputy Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Kosofe Local Government Branch highlighted the Chairman’s dedication to ensuring that youths in Kosofe enjoy a better standard of living, not only for artisans but also for students.

“This empowerment is a bold step by the Chairman. Many youths either have little capital to start their businesses or none at all, despite having acquired skills. This programme will help them grow their capital base and even start their own ventures,” he said.

He further noted that the initiative also targeted students in higher institutions who face challenges financing their education. “This programme helps reduce the cost of continuing their studies and also eases financial pressure on parents. I am confident that the beneficiaries of today’s programme will make the best use of the resources provided,” Comrade Isiaka stated.

Comrade Amos also lauded Barr. Ogunlewe for his passion for youth development, emphasizing that his programmes have positively influenced both the economic and educational lives of young people in Kosofe Local Government.