The Lagos State Government has disbursed N2.46bn to 8,690 vulnerable residents over the past year under the Sanwo-Olu Listens Financial Assistance Programme, aimed at easing the financial burden on disadvantaged citizens.
The disclosure was made on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement, Dr. Afolabi Tajudeen, during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held in Ikeja.
The event marked the second year of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.
According to Afolabi, the programme targets residents struggling with high medical expenses, rent challenges, educational needs, and small business survival.
“This initiative not only provides direct financial relief but also reflects the governor’s commitment to compassion, inclusivity, and economic empowerment,” he said.
In addition to the N2.46bn already disbursed, another N1.6bn is expected to be distributed within the next two weeks as part of a Sallah palliative, targeting around 1,000 new beneficiaries.
“The Sanwo-Olu Listens programme is ongoing. It is a vital part of our strategy to reduce poverty and ensure no one is left behind,” Afolabi stated.
He also highlighted complementary interventions under the Eko Cares initiative, which empowered over 6,000 small-scale entrepreneurs, enhancing economic resilience and family welfare.
Further support was provided through a N400 million mother-and-child nutrition programme, benefiting 6,280 residents, and the Snacks for Thought school feeding initiative, which reached 11,965 pupils in public schools.
“We fed our pupils nutritious meals—rice with various proteins—to support both their health and learning,” Afolabi noted.
On citizen engagement, he revealed that over 400,000 feedback messages were received via the Citizens Gate digital platform, strengthening inclusive governance and government responsiveness.
“These interventions underscore our administration’s determination to build a socially responsive, economically inclusive Lagos,” he added.
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