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LAGOS, Nigeria - Dedicated to alleviating the challenges faced by underprivileged residents of Lagos, the State Government has allocated N1.6 billion to assist vulnerable individuals in securing improved housing and addressing health issues in 2025.
Prior to this announcement, the government revealed that N2.461 billion had been spent on 8,690 vulnerable residents over the past four years as part of its social intervention initiative, known as 'Sanwo-Olu Listens.'
This information was shared by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Tajudeen Afolabi, during a ministerial press briefing commemorating the second anniversary of Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office at Alausa, Ikeja.
“Mr. Governor has been supporting this initiative since its inception in 2020. Currently, 8,690 beneficiaries have received assistance through this program. I can confirm that we are in the process of verifying a new group of beneficiaries who will be invited to collect their cheques in due time,” he stated.
Afolabi further noted that the N2.461 billion had been disbursed to the aforementioned 8,690 beneficiaries up to this point. “Ongoing support is being provided for new beneficiaries. This figure pertains only to 2024; the 2025 allocations have yet to be accounted for,” Afolabi added.
He went on to say, “The Governor has sanctioned N1.6 billion for this year. Within the next two to three weeks, we anticipate hundreds of beneficiaries will come forward to collect their cheques, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the Ileya festivities. I assure you, it will be a remarkable experience.”
He emphasized that this program, which offers direct financial aid to indigent residents of Lagos, symbolizes inclusive governance, restoring dignity and inspiring hope throughout the state.
Providing further insight into the Office’s activities, Dr. Afolabi explained that, in a strategic effort to tackle maternal and neonatal health issues, the Office has supported 6,280 low-income pregnant women with nutritional assistance through the Mother, Infant and Child Development (MICHD) program. He noted that during the initial launch of this program in 2021, it took place at Public Health Centres (PHCs).
However, to better serve more women and in light of the establishment of the Lagos State Six Health Districts, the program has since been held across these health districts statewide.
By ensuring expectant mothers access the nutritious food essential for their well-being, the State Government is not only supporting them but also securing the future of Lagos.
Expressing gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the Special Adviser affirmed that the Office remains dedicated to fostering a politically informed, civically responsible, and harmonious society where every Lagos resident’s voice is heard.
