By Araba, Olawale Enifenilanfe:
In a coordinated initiative to enhance infrastructural development within the Ikorodu-West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), the Executive Chairman, Honorable Sulaimon Kazeem Olanrewaju (SKO), FCA, FCTI, and its Vice-Chairman, Adesegun Aluko, the legislative Arms and the political leaders, Staff and management including the community stakeholders has welcomed Honourable Babajimi Adegoke Benson MHR, the Member of the House of Representatives for the Ikorodu Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, popularly referred to as the “Julius Berger of Ikorodu Division” for the official commissioning of 600 meters of road construction on Fela Ahmed Street and an additional 600 meters along Taiwo Molajo Street, resulting in a total of 1.2 meters of newly constructed roads.
The event also encompassed an overview of the West-End Event Center and the new office for the Council Chairman, both constructed under the leadership of Hon. SKO.
Following the commissioning of these street improvements, over 70 individuals benefited from the sixth edition of “The Mega Empowerment Programme,” specifically branded as the SKO Empowerment Initiative led by Hon. Sulaimon Kazeem Olanrewaju (SKO), FCA, FCTI, aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of residents within Ikorodu-West LCDA. The event took place at the Council Secretariat in Owutu, Isawo, Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria, on Friday, May 30, 2025.
The construction of these vital roads was intended to reduce travel time and alleviate the burden on the residents of the Agric and Isawo communities. This initiative embodies the fundamental purpose of government: to identify the needs of the populace and strive to address the challenges that they face.
Hon. SKO reiterated the commitment of his administration to continue advancing the progress and development of Ikorodu-West LCDA, emphasizing, “This is just the beginning; more is still on the way.”
Honorable Babajimi Adegoke Benson MHR, recognizing the past conditions of the streets before their reconstruction, dedicated the newly commissioned roads to the service of the community, hoping that they would enhance the daily lives of the residents.
In his address during the ceremony, the Hon. Benson encouraged the residents of Ikorodu-West LCDA to actively engage in communal and political activities that fostered development.
Following the completion of the essential protocols, Hon. Adesegun Aluko, the Vice-Chairman of Ikorodu-West LCDA, extended a warm welcome to the political leaders and stakeholders present at the event, acknowledging their contributions to local development.
The Executive Chairman, Hon. Sulaimon Kazeem Olanrewaju, FCA, FCTI, urged the beneficiaries of the government’s empowerment program to refrain from selling the items received, as these represent tangible dividends of democracy entrusted to them. “Such actions will motivate us to continue providing more support,” he remarked.
He further called upon the masses, especially members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), to maintain their commitment and mobilize support for the party in the upcoming local government elections scheduled for July 12, 2025, in preparation for the 2027 presidential election. “With the APC in governance, we assure greater prosperity and renewed hope for every segment of society,” he stated.
The empowerment program included various tools and household items presented to the beneficiaries, which included:
– A brand new Tricycle (Maruwa)
– Pepe Grinder (Ero Ilota)
– Sewing machine
– Electricity Power Generator
– Deep-freezer
– Gas Stove
– Gas cooker
These provisions aim to improve the quality of life for those in need of assistance.
Additionally, cash donations of twenty thousand naira were distributed to over 300 households within Ikorodu-West LCDA, catering to the elderly and youth demographics, as a gesture of commitment and goodwill towards the community.
As a distinguished guest, Hon. Benson acknowledged the numerous road construction projects facilitated by the Hon. SKO, with support from Distinguished Senator Mukail Adetokunbo Abiru, FCA, who represents the Lagos East Senatorial District in the 9th Nigerian National Assembly.
Recognizing the significance of the sixth empowerment initiative, Hon. Benson commended the efforts made.
Moreover, he emphasized the necessity for unity within Ikorodu-West, urging a collective electoral commitment to secure a substantial voter turnout. He referenced scripture, stating, “When a ship sinks, it affects everyone,” highlighting the importance of proactive leadership.
In an interview, Hon. Adesegun Aluko expressed the importance of the empowerment initiative in enhancing the lives of individuals under their jurisdiction, ensuring that government efforts contribute meaningfully to the citizens’ welfare. He noted that over 60 to 70 people have benefited from this initiative, and past experiences have demonstrated the necessity for beneficiaries to utilize received items productively rather than converting them into cash to gain from future programs. A committee has been established to oversee the appropriate use of these resources.
Acknowledging the prevalent hardships faced by the populace, Hon. Aluko urged the community to maintain their faith in the current government while encouraging them to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in forthcoming local government elections.
LaRoyal Global CommunityNews: 2025 © Edition.
