Residents of Ikorodu West LCDA on Monday witnessed the official launch of Project S.K.O. — Special Kare for the Old — as the council administration commenced the distribution of ATM cards to elderly beneficiaries under the initiative.

The programme, spearheaded by the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu West LCDA, Hon. Sulaimon Kazeem Olanrewaju, was held at the Council Secretariat Hall and marked what officials described as a major step toward strengthening social welfare and elderly support within the council area.

The initiative, which commenced with a mandatory NIN and BVN verification exercise, is designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and secure monthly financial support for registered senior citizens. Beneficiaries who successfully completed the verification process received ATM cards through which monthly stipends will be disbursed.

Speaking at the event, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, a member of the Lagos Governance Advisory Council, commended the chairman for introducing a people-oriented programme aimed at improving the welfare of the elderly. He described Hon. Olanrewaju as “a political son in whom I am well pleased,” while praising the administration’s commitment to compassionate governance.

Also speaking, Former Special Adviser on Education in Lagos State, Dr. Fatai Olukoga compared Project S.K.O. to social welfare systems obtainable in developed countries, including the United States. He urged beneficiaries to make prudent use of the monthly stipends by prioritising feeding, medications, and other essential needs.

The event attracted several political leaders, government officials, and stakeholders, including former Commissioner for Local Government Lanre Balogun; Vice Chairman of Ikorodu West LCDA, Adesegun Aluko; Council Manager Rotimi Okunowo; Secretary to the LCDA Salau Ibukun Rukayat; Supervisor for Community Affairs Bilikis Olayinka Adebayo; and Leader of the House Enitan Jessica Oba, alongside council staff, CDC executives, and party leaders.

Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Ikorodu West LCDA, Bayo Lawson, described the programme as a reflection of good governance and inclusive leadership. According to him, beneficiaries were selected without consideration for political affiliation, religion, or ethnicity.

In his address, Hon. Sulaimon Kazeem Olanrewaju said the idea behind Project S.K.O. was inspired during a visit to Senator Ogunlewe, whom he thanked for his guidance and mentorship.

The chairman explained that beyond supporting elderly residents directly, the initiative would also ease economic pressure on relatives and caregivers responsible for their welfare. He urged beneficiaries to utilise the funds strictly for healthcare, feeding, and other welfare-related needs.

He added that the project reflects the council’s commitment to caring for senior citizens who contributed to the development of society, noting that the administration remains focused on delivering impactful and people-centred governance.

With the successful distribution of ATM cards, the council has officially commenced the monthly stipend cycle for beneficiaries under Project S.K.O.