In an inspiring display of community support, Ekiti State’s Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s monthly empowerment initiative, “Ojuse Bao,” has once again delivered life-changing assistance to residents.
On Thursday, 43 beneficiaries received a variety of aid, ranging from cash grants to essential startup kits, aimed at improving their livelihoods and boosting self-reliance.
The conference hall at the Governor’s office was abuzz with excitement as the recipients, drawn from various walks of life and reflecting a diverse demographic, were called up to receive their assistance.
Among the beneficiaries were two individuals who received financial aid for medical expenses, thirteen students who each received up to ₦250,000 to cover their school fees, fifteen people who were provided with technical tools to support their businesses, one person who received public aid, and twelve others who were granted startup equipment.
Governor Oyebanji’s “Ojuse Bao” initiative is a personal endeavor funded from his monthly salary, demonstrating his commitment to supporting the underprivileged in Ekiti State regardless of their tribe, political affiliation, religion, or social status.
This inclusivity emphasizes the program’s unbiased nature, ensuring that every resident in need can benefit from the governor’s generosity.
This latest round marks the second edition of the program for the year, building on previous efforts that saw 26 beneficiaries receive various forms of assistance totaling millions of naira.
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The initiative has catered to a wide range of needs, including startup funds, medical aid, and educational support. Notably, people with disabilities have also been supported through this initiative, highlighting its comprehensive and inclusive approach.
As part of its ongoing efforts to gauge the impact of the “Ojuse Bao” program, a dedicated team, led by Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Mrs. Sola Abe, has been conducting monitoring and evaluation visits. The team has already visited 20 beneficiaries across the state, with many showing significant progress thanks to the governor’s support. This exercise will continue to ensure that the program’s goals of economic empowerment and poverty alleviation are met.
In addition to the direct support provided to residents, the “Ojuse Bao” initiative has expanded its outreach through a dedicated radio program on the Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State (BSES).This platform aims to raise awareness and extend the program’s reach to even more residents.
The radio show has already aired two episodes, with a third scheduled for Sunday evening.
Key officials, including the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, Commissioner for Employment and Wealth Creation, Otunba Kayode Fasae, Director General of Community Communications, Mrs. Mary Oso Omotoso, and Special Adviser on Tertiary Education, Dr. Akeem Azeez, joined Mrs. Sola Abe in presenting the cheques and equipment to the beneficiaries.
The recipients expressed profound gratitude and amazement, with many admitting they initially thought the program was too good to be true.
The distributed items ranged from cutting machines and cassava grinders to roofing sheets, industrial sewing machines, deep freezers, and binding and laminating machines, all signifying Governor Oyebanji’s genuine commitment to lifting residents out of poverty and fostering self-reliance in Ekiti State.