In a major move to boost grassroots economic development, the Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council Development Area (LCDA) on Monday empowered 1,000 traders, artisans, and residents with a N100 million non-repayable business grant under its “Ajumose Season 1 – Growth Together Entrepreneur Empowerment Programme.”
Each beneficiary received N100,000 cash support aimed at strengthening and expanding their businesses. The event took place at the LCDA secretariat and was attended by political leaders, community stakeholders, and traditional rulers.
Speaking at the event, LCDA Chairman, Mr. Ladi Oluwaloni, described the initiative as a historic step toward fostering economic growth and uplifting the lives of residents in the area.
“This is not merely an event; it is a bold declaration of our administration’s unshakable commitment to building a vibrant and inclusive Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA,” Oluwaloni stated.
He added that the grants would drive sustainable livelihoods, promote innovation, and facilitate job creation. Beneficiaries included artisans, transport union members, traders, and officials of various Community Development Associations.
“Small and medium-scale enterprises are the soul of any thriving economy. This initiative is a movement to transform lives and re-write the economic story of Ayobo-Ipaja,” he added.
Oba Ahmed Orelope-Laka, Elegbeda of Egbeda, lauded the council chairman for his forward-thinking initiatives.
“This kind of empowerment is unprecedented in Ayobo-Ipaja. We thank the chairman for supporting our people in such a tangible and impactful way,” the traditional ruler said.
Also speaking, Mr. Wole Aina, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the LCDA, described the empowerment as the largest in the council’s history and urged beneficiaries to use the funds judiciously.
“Let us support this administration by participating actively in the upcoming local government elections,” Aina urged.
Mrs. Taibat Awosika, a trader and one of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to the council, saying the support would significantly boost her business.
“I’ll use the money to restock my shop. This grant is a lifeline for small traders like me,” she said.
The “Ajumose” program is part of the council’s broader effort to promote inclusive economic development and position Ayobo-Ipaja as a model of grassroots prosperity and innovation.
