In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Ogun State, the Councillor representing Ward 3, Owode-Egba in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area, Hon. Adekunle Ajayi Abdul-Lateef, popularly known as “LATI Iyana,” has empowered 50 residents with cash support totalling ₦2.5 million.
Each beneficiary received ₦50,000 as part of what the councillor described as an economic empowerment initiative aimed at supporting grassroots residents and cushioning the effects of the current economic challenges. The event, held in Owode-Egba, drew community members, party leaders, and local government officials who gathered to mark Ogun State’s golden jubilee with a show of support for residents.
Speaking at the programme, Hon. Abdul-Lateef, who also serves as the Chief Whip of the Legislative Council, said the gesture was in fulfilment of his campaign promise to provide purposeful leadership and improve the welfare of his constituents.
He noted that the empowerment initiative was designed to promote financial independence among residents and strengthen their participation in local economic activities. According to him, “The celebration of Ogun at 50 is not just about marking the years, but about impacting lives. This is a token of our commitment to ensuring our people are economically active and self-reliant.”
He added that the programme also seeks to complement government efforts at alleviating economic hardship at the grassroots level, stressing that more empowerment initiatives would follow in phases.
The Leader of the Legislative Council in the local government, Hon. Saheed, welcomed the beneficiaries and encouraged them to make judicious use of the funds to support their trades and livelihoods. He assured them that the initiative would be sustained and expanded to reach more residents.
Also speaking, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman in the local government, Hon. Idowu Olude, described the councillor’s gesture as commendable, noting that the first batch of 50 beneficiaries would be followed by additional rounds of support. He urged residents who were not included in the first phase to remain patient, assuring them that another list of beneficiaries would be compiled soon.
Olude further used the occasion to encourage residents to participate actively in civic processes by registering for their voter’s cards, emphasizing the importance of political participation in sustaining grassroots development.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the financial support, describing it as timely and impactful amid rising living costs. Many said the funds would help them boost their small businesses and meet pressing family needs.
The empowerment programme formed part of activities marking Ogun State’s 50th anniversary, highlighting the role of local leadership in supporting community development and economic resilience at the ward level.
