Kunle Adelabu
A whopping sum of N225milion was presented to 800 residents of Ikorodu as business grant by Rep. Babajimi Adegoke Benson, the representative of Ikorodu federal constituency as part of his Renewed Hope Mega Empowerment Initiative.
The grant which was another phase of the three –term lawmaker’s business support for constituents of Ikorodu were presented on Tuesday at the Ikorodu Musical Village, Ikorodu.
As part of the initiative, 700 beneficiaries received financial grants of ₦250,00, 100 residents got ₦500,000 to support and grow their businesses and other economic activities.
Rep. Benson was joined by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, who is also the Gubernatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), his Deputy, Mrs Damilola Sonayon-James; APC State Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi; Chairman, APC Campaign Council, Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro, GAC chieftain and former Minister, in presenting the dummy cheques to beneficiaries.
“If you receive equipment, put it to productive use. If you receive support for your business, grow your business. If you receive an opportunity to improve your livelihood, make the most of it!
Our goal is not merely to distribute, our goal is to empower people to become economically independent and have support for their families,” Rep. Benson said.
Beneficiaries, many of whom referred to the financial support for their businesses as timely, thanked the lawmaker for the gesture.
While also commending him for sustaining his quality representation, they assured him of their continuous support for his representation and re –election.
Sen. Adeseye Ogunlewe, former Minister of Works and chieftain of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), urged beneficiaries of Rep. Benson’s business grants and empowerment materials to make good use of the opportunities that have been provided to them.
“Work is the antidote to poverty, and Mr President has assigned Jimi Benson and the governor for this work. Those that are complaining about the hike in the prices of goods should know that the welfare of the people is the responsibility of the government.”
“All that will be given to you is for you to prosper. Please do not sell it! All those that nominated you for this empowerment are the people we’ll hold responsible to ensure that you make a living out of them.
Anyone given 500,000 naira should spend it wisely and productively. It was given to help you because of the future. Jimi Benson, thank you.”
While further commending the Ikorodu federal lawmaker for his representation, Sen. Ogunlewe openly informed the APC Gubernatorial Candidate that residents of Ikorodu are voting for the ruling party because of Rep. Benson’s performances and assured him on the delivery of a minimum of 250, 00 votes.
“Mr Governor sir, if there is no Jimi, there is no vote in Ikorodu. We are giving you 250,000 votes. Jimi has accepted. Tokunbo Abiru has accepted as well and all other leaders. Go and write it down. We have registered 438,000 voters. We have 682 polling units”.
Representative of Ikorodu Constituency II, Hon. Aro Moshood Abiodun (AMA), also commended Rep. Benson’s support for the electorates.
“Today’s multi billion Naira empowerment is more than a ceremony, it is a celebration of opportunity, compassion and people-centred leadership.”
“My boss, Honourable Babajimi Adegoke, I particularly admire your political sagacity and your understanding that effective representation must address people’s immediate needs whilst investing in their future.
From security support and business grant, to vocational training, education, health care, road infrastructure, your interventions reflect a comprehensive approach to constituency development. JB you are a genius with a heart of gold. I love you boss.”
