… target 4million indigent
In line with the Omituntun 2:0 Agenda of His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde, the Oyo State Government has commenced distribution of cash grant to indigent citizen to cushion the effects of economic downturn on the vulnerable demographic of the State through Social Safety Net Interventions (Targeted Grant).
Speaking at the symbolic presentation of cash grants to the first 500 beneficiaries at the Government House, Agodi Ibadan today, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Balogun stated that, these grants are intended to provide succor by enabling applicants to start micro and nano businesses, meet basic needs and eventually assist them to rise out of the ranks of penury and destitution, especially during times of crisis or personal hardship.
According to her, “financial literacy is the key that unlocks long-term success. We need to ensure that women and other vulnerable demographics have the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions—whether it’s starting a business, investing, or saving for the future.”
“Financial assistance programs, grants, microloans, and other forms of support transcend beyond providing money—they are about providing the necessary tools, knowledge, and confidence the vulnerable among us, women inclusive, need to break away from cycles of poverty and dependency.”
Hon. Balogun stressed further that, “when citizens are financially empowered, they can invest in their futures, their families, and their communities.
It is not an over statement that when people have access to finance, they are more likely to invest in their children’s education and healthcare, and consequently towards breaking the chains of generational poverty.”
The Commissioner emphasized that, today’s event is no doubt an extension of the Social Protection and Safety Nets through Cash grants targeted 4 million indigent family from poverty to self sustenance and prosperity through various interventions within the timeline of the Governor Seyi Makinde led government in line with the Omituntun 2:0 Agenda.
She maintains that this event which is a Social Safety Net Intervention targeted towards the vulnerable demographics that is indigent women, women with multiple live births, the elderly and people living with different disabilities.
She reiterates that, financial assistance is not just about providing money. It also reinforces pathways for economic growth, opportunities for leadership, and the freedom to live on your terms.
You will all agree with me that empowering the citizens financially is not just the responsibility of governments or organizations; it’s a collective responsibility.
We all have a role to play—whether as individuals, communities, or institutions—in creating an environment where we can all thrive financially.
Let us continue to work together and ensure that every citizen of our state, especially the indigent and vulnerable among us have access to the financial resources needed to reach our full potential, she concluded.
In her opening remark, the Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion Dr. (Mrs.) Esther Fasona who was represented by Director Community Development, Mr. Ariori Lateef, said this occasion is a testament to our collective dedication to fostering an inclusive and compassionate society.
According to her, “in a world where challenges and hardships are all too real for many, it is essential that we come together to provide assistance and uplift those who are struggling.”
“Our community has always been defined by its resilience and generosity, and it is through initiatives like this that we reaffirm our values and commitment to one another.
She added that, this financial support is not merely a gesture; it represents our shared responsibility and the tangible impact we can have on the lives of our fellow citizens.”
Some of the beneficiaries, Mr Debo Showemimo, Mr Ikudaisi, Mrs Nzubechi Blessing Juachi( Mama Triplet), thank Governor Seyi Makinde for these gestures and promise to spend the cash grant judiciously.
