By Oluwaseun Nubi
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has praised Kafilat Ogbara, the lawmaker representing Kosofe Federal Constituency, for empowering 1,000 residents of Ikosi-Isheri, Agboyi-Ketu, and other parts of the constituency.
Sanwo-Olu described the initiative as a true dividend of democracy.
He gave the commendation on Sunday at the empowerment programme organised by Ogbara for constituents in Kosofe, at CMD Field, Magodo.
The governor said the empowerment items distributed would positively transform the lives of beneficiaries and improve their socio-economic well-being.
“What we are seeing here today are things that will change lives tomorrow. When people begin to use these tools and resources, they become better citizens, better parents and contributors to society,” he said.
He noted that the initiative aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, adding that inclusive governance remained a key focus of his administration.
“All she is doing sits very well with the Renewed Hope Agenda laid down by our President. This is governance that truly improves the quality of life of the people and supports the vulnerable in our society,” he said.
The governor hailed Ogbara for choosing to invest public resources in uplifting her constituents rather than personal gain.
“She could have taken all these resources and kept them for herself and her family, but instead she has chosen to lift people out of poverty. This is what we call real inclusive governance,” he said.
He urged the residents to continue to support the lawmaker and encouraged other public office holders to emulate such people-centred initiatives.
“This is the real dividend of democracy. Governance that touches lives directly and empowers the people,” he added.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the empowerment items distributed included electric motorcycles, vehicles, sewing machines, generators, hair-dressing equipment, popcorn machines and other vocational tools.
In her remarks, Ogbara said the empowerment programme was part of her commitment to ensuring that governance translated into tangible benefits for constituents.
“I promise that the voices of my people will not only be heard in the hallowed chambers of the National Assembly, but that real development will reach our streets, schools, markets and homes,” she said.
The lawmaker disclosed that over the past two and a half years, her office had implemented several empowerment and social intervention programmes across the constituency.
“We have disbursed over N100 million in grants to women and youths, conducted financial literacy and vocational training programmes, supported small businesses and carried out drug-abuse awareness campaigns,” she said.
She added that some beneficiaries had become employers of labour, while others had expanded their businesses.
“We profiled every beneficiary carefully to ensure fairness and that each item goes to someone who truly needs it. This empowerment cuts across party lines; it is about the people,” she said.
Ogbara assured residents that the empowerment programme would be sustained.
“What we have done today is significant, but it is not enough. This is a continuous process, and those who are yet to benefit will surely be reached,” she said.
She reiterated her commitment to prioritising education, healthcare, infrastructure and economic development in the constituency.
Mr Ganiyu Olanrewaju, a former Senator, urged the lawmaker not to relent in her efforts, noting that her deep understanding of constituency needs was evident in the quality of projects executed.
“You know what your constituency needs and you keep providing. We urge others to follow suit. This is not the time to rest on your oars,” he said.
He also encouraged residents to take advantage of government initiatives, particularly the ongoing electronic registration exercise, stressing its importance for inclusive governance and effective planning.
Mr Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, hailed Ogbara’s performance, especially her constituency engagement and legislative contributions.
He praised the lawmaker for her commitment to grassroots development.
“She has remained consistent in engaging her constituents and delivering on her mandate.
“Her contributions in terms of legislation are improving significantly,” Obasa said.
He emphasised that effective representation required continuous engagement with the people and responsiveness to their needs.
Some beneficiaries of the empowerment programme, who received a Toyota Corolla car, tricycles, and a mini bus, thanked the organisers, calling the initiative “timely” and “impactful”.
Mrs Tawa Gbadamosi got a Toyota Corolla car, Atitebi Dauda received a tricycle to boost his livelihood, and Alilu Balogun was allocated a mini bus to grow his transport business.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Gbadamosi said the empowerment would significantly improve her productivity and economic stability.
“This support means a lot to me and my family. The Toyota Corolla will enhance my mobility and help me contribute more effectively to my community,” she said.
Similarly, Dauda, who received a tricycle, described the empowerment as a life-changing intervention.
“This tricycle is not just a vehicle; it is a source of daily income for me. I am sincerely grateful for this opportunity,” he said.
Balogun, beneficiary of the mini bus, noted that the gesture would expand his transport business and create employment opportunities for others.
“With this mini bus, I can grow my business and also provide jobs for youths. This is empowerment in the real sense,” Balogun said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Folasade Adeniran
