The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has distributed ₦100 million in business support grants to traders, artisans, and farmers across Oyo State as part of efforts to cushion the impact of rising economic hardship and strengthen small-scale enterprises.
The initiative, tagged the “2025 Mega Empowerment and Economic Relief Programme Series,” was held at the Bayo Adelabu Foundation House in Ibadan.
Speaking during the event, Adelabu, a former deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), said the programme was designed to empower entrepreneurs, stimulate local economic activity, and promote inclusive growth across communities.
“This empowerment is not about politics. I am only thanking God for His mercy by giving back to society,” Adelabu stated, emphasising that the initiative was a gesture of gratitude and service rather than a political move.
The minister acknowledged the economic difficulties many Nigerians are facing and called for targeted interventions to support those hit hardest by inflation and rising living costs. He urged citizens to remain hopeful and continue supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration, assuring that ongoing economic reforms would soon yield positive results.
“President Tinubu is God-sent to Nigeria. Though things are tough now, Nigerians will soon reap the gains of their sacrifices,” he added.
Guest speaker and financial expert, Olutayo Akinleye, commended the minister’s effort, describing the initiative as a crucial step toward promoting entrepreneurship and strengthening the local economy. He advised beneficiaries to use the grants responsibly to grow their businesses and create value within their communities.
Several beneficiaries expressed gratitude to Adelabu for the support, noting that the funds would help them expand their businesses, increase productivity, and improve their standard of living.
The empowerment programme forms part of a series of interventions aimed at building resilience among small business owners and rural entrepreneurs ,a move expected to boost micro and small enterprise development across Oyo State.
