The Chairman of Olorunda Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State, Ajose Kumayon, has empowered over 700 widows, women and youths with cash grants, vocational tools, educational support and food items, as part of efforts to strengthen small businesses, promote self-reliance and improve livelihoods at the grassroots.
The empowerment programme, held at Mowo Junior Secondary School, Osun Egbado, Badagry, marked Kumayon’s first 100 days in office and formed part of his administration’s “Reshape Agenda.”
The event attracted traditional rulers, community leaders, religious leaders and political stakeholders, who commended the council chairman for prioritising inclusive economic development and support for vulnerable groups. Cultural performances also featured as part of the ceremony.
Beneficiaries received a wide range of support items, including cash gifts, sewing machines, grinding machines, barbing kits, hair dryers, make-up kits, freezers, POS machines, generators, motorcycles, cars, food items and an automated wheelchair for persons living with disabilities. Educational and mobility support was also extended, alongside the presentation of official and personal vehicles to the council’s legislative arm to strengthen governance and service delivery.
Speaking at the event, Kumayon said the initiative was designed to stimulate grassroots enterprise, particularly among women and youths operating micro and small businesses. He stressed that empowering widows and vulnerable residents was central to building a more inclusive local economy.
“Our focus is to ensure that women, widows and youths are not left behind. When you empower people with the right tools, skills and support, you are not just giving assistance you are creating pathways to economic independence and sustainable livelihoods,” he said.
Kumayon reiterated his administration’s commitment to rolling out continuous empowerment programmes, including financial grants, vocational training and access to productive assets, to help residents grow their businesses and contribute meaningfully to local economic development.
According to him, the initiative aligns with the council’s broader development agenda aimed at reshaping Olorunda LCDA into a hub of opportunity where small enterprises can thrive and households can achieve improved economic stability.
