By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has hailed a mega empowerment initiative, describing it as a bold step towards self-reliance with visible and lasting impact.

“This empowerment is a visible transformation—a true alternative to dependency.

“It is something both the blind can see and the deaf can hear,” he said with emphasis.

The governor made the remark during the mega empowerment programme held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti, aimed at benefiting over 5,000 residents of the central senatorial district.

Commending Senator Bamidele Opeyemi for his unwavering commitment to the people, Oyebanji recalled a moment during past political campaigns when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited Ekiti State and endorsed Senator Bamidele, describing him as a trusted ally capable of effectively representing the state in Abuja.

He equally praised President Tinubu for his dedication to the welfare of Nigerians, stressing that all levels of government—from the National Assembly to local councils—are working in alignment with the President’s vision.

While urging beneficiaries to seize the opportunity for personal and family development, Oyebanji assured that the empowerment drive would be sustained.

“This is 2024, and while some are benefiting today, others will benefit in 2025, 2026, 2027, and beyond,” he declared.

He also expressed appreciation to Senator Bamidele for his consistent efforts in uplifting the people.

Speaking at the event, Senator Opeyemi expressed gratitude to his constituents for their unflinching support.

“This initiative is a way of providing meaningful assistance to those in need and ensuring that individuals across various sectors have access to essential resources,” he noted.

As part of the programme, 1,900 individuals are to receive grants of ₦100,000 each, including 800 market women drawn from various local government areas.

The funds will be paid directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts after due verification by local authorities.

Beyond the financial support, the initiative also includes the distribution of: 180 motorcycles; 333 sewing machines; 165 tricycles; an additional 400 sewing machines; cassava and pepper grinding machines; lawn mowers and land tillers for farmers; as well as books and farming tools for agricultural cooperatives.

In addition, several ambulances are to be delivered to hospitals, including the Federal Teaching Hospital and the College of Health Technology.

The initiative further includes 20 mini-buses for entrepreneurs and other stakeholders.

Senator Opeyemi made it clear that the selection process for beneficiaries was not influenced by political or religious affiliations but was carried out through various associations, including the Christian Association of Nigeria and trade coalitions.

Reaffirming his commitment to developmental initiatives, he said, “This is part of what we promised you, and we will continue working to improve the lives of our people.”

The Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr Charles Odii, called on other lawmakers to collaborate with SMEDAN in delivering the dividends of good governance to their constituents.

The Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo, lauded Senator Opeyemi for organising such a landmark empowerment programme and charged beneficiaries to put the equipment provided to good use.

Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, described the initiative as a shining example of continuity, noting that it is the largest empowerment programme in the history of Ekiti.