The Executive Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Hon. Sulaimon Yusuf Bamidele, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of residents as he presided over a programme aimed to empower residents across the council area.

Speaking at the event, Bamidele described the initiative as a significant milestone in the council’s drive toward a more prosperous and inclusive Surulere.

He noted that the programme goes beyond mere assistance, emphasizing that it reflects the administration’s resolve to deliver governance that directly impacts lives, creates opportunities and uplifts communities.

According to him, empowering residents, particularly youths and women, remains central to sustainable development in the local government. He stressed that when citizens are productive, the future of the community is secured, adding that the council will continue to invest in initiatives that support entrepreneurship and economic growth.

The chairman urged beneficiaries to treat the support received as a responsibility to grow their ventures and contribute positively to society. He also assured residents that the empowerment programme is one of many initiatives aimed at ensuring inclusive growth and that no one is left behind in the development agenda of the council.

Sulaimon further aligned the initiative with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that his administration would continue to promote women inclusion and expand opportunities across all sectors.

Representing Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun, Alhaji Giwa applauded the programme and advised the council to establish a monitoring team to oversee the proper use of the distributed equipment, while commending the chairman for the initiative.

Also speaking, the Leader of the Legislative Council, Hon. Hakeem Olayiwola Abdurrahman, described the programme as the third edition of the council’s empowerment initiative, noting that it stands out due to its people-centered approach.

He explained that unlike previous interventions, beneficiaries were allowed to indicate their specific needs through a structured feedback process.

According to him, forms were distributed across communities, cutting across artisans, religious groups and other stakeholders, to identify items and support required to improve their livelihoods.

Abdurrahman said the council procured items and provided cash grants strictly based on the needs expressed by residents, ensuring that the intervention directly addresses real economic challenges.

He commended the chairman for what he described as a welfare-driven leadership style and appreciated key stakeholders for their support.

In her remarks, the Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Ganiyat Alli-Balogun, said the initiative was designed to improve the standard of living of residents and promote economic stability within the community.

She noted that beneficiaries were carefully selected through a screening and sensitization process to ensure accountability and proper utilization of the resources provided.

According to her, the council engaged various groups, including artisans and youths, to prepare them for the opportunity and emphasize the importance of using the support effectively.

Dignitaries and stakeholders at the event also commended the chairman for what they described as a laudable and impactful initiative.

Hon. Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Conference 57 expressed appreciation to the chairman for prioritizing residents’ welfare, noting that similar efforts are being replicated by other local government chairmen across Lagos State.

Hon. Barakat Odunnuga Former Special Adviser Housing, congratulated the chairman on the successful programme, describing it as commendable, and urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the support provided.

The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, represented by the Director of Local Government, lauded the chairman’s efforts, expressing pride in the initiative and encouraging beneficiaries to utilize the items effectively while supporting the administration.

Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Hakeem Bamgbola, also commended the initiative and expressed hope that other local governments would emulate the Surulere model.

Alhaji S.S. Ajao described the programme as a commendable act, noting that the equipment distributed was based on the specific demands of beneficiaries across various fields. He urged recipients to make good use of the items.

Hon. Agboola Dabiri praised the chairman’s performance since the inception of his administration, describing the empowerment programme as outstanding.

Ogboni Fuad Oki appreciated the chairman on behalf of the people of Surulere, describing the initiative as a true reflection of the dividends of democracy.

Pa Adenekan also lent his voice in support of the initiative, commending the council for prioritizing residents’ welfare.

The APC Chairman in Surulere, Alhaji Sheriff Balogun, expressed pride in the council leadership, highlighting the scale of the empowerment programme and the chairman’s responsiveness to the needs of residents. He urged beneficiaries to make proper use of the equipment they requested.

Beneficiaries of the programme also expressed gratitude to the council leadership. Taiwo Dosunmu, a beneficiary of an electricity oven, appreciated the chairman for the kind gesture, noting that it would greatly support and expand his business.

Similarly, Ipaye Lukman, a cash support beneficiary, commended the chairman for the assistance, stating that he intends to invest the funds in his wife’s petty trade business, which he believes will significantly improve their household income.