By Niyi Ogungbola
In furtherance to the Oko’wo Dapo initiative aimed at upscaling the means of livelihood of market women and men, the Secretary to Ogun State Government (SSG), Mr. Tokunbo Talabi has empowered over 200 market traders with cash support towards ensuring the sustainability of their small-scale businesses.
Talabi, who spoke during the presentation of the cash support at Oru-Ijebu town hall, Ijebu North Local Government Area, said the empowerment programme was inspired by the passion of the State Governor for the downtrodden and the desire to create more wealth for people at the grassroot level.
Admonishing the beneficiaries who were drawn from twelve markets in the council area, the State’s scribe stated that judicious use of the fund would enable more people to benefit from the support fund.
Also speaking, the wife of the SSG, Mrs. Aderinola Talabi said the empowerment package was to support households, trade groups and the society at large, towards improving the economic power of the traders.
On her part, the wife of the Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Mrs. Bolanle Oluomo advised the beneficiaries not to divert the money for personal gains, noting that it is expected of them to invest it in their business activities.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman, Ijebu-North Local Government, Mr. Bolaji Odusanya appreciated the gesture, saying it was an indication that Mr.Talabi had the interest of the people at heart.
In his remark, the Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, Oba AbdulRasak Adenugba, thanked the SSG and his wife for supporting the people at the grassroot through the fund, which he noted would bring about growth in their businesses, appealing to the beneficiaries to trade wisely with the resources.
Also speaking, the Iyaloja-General of Ijebu, Alhaja Sariat Adeleye, appreciated the Secretary to the State Government, with a promise that they would make sure the money is judiciously utilised, so as to encourage the sustainability of such intervention for the benefit of others.
Highlight of the programme was the distribution of cheques to market traders in Sarepowo-Ojo, Oke-Agbo, Maamu, Ilaporu, Imope, Obada, Ago-Iwoye Central, Ako, Awa and Atikoti markets.
Dignitaries at the event includes, Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, former Deputy Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Dr. Tokunbo Oshin and Babalojaof Ijebu North,Mr.Bashiru Popoola.
Also in attendance were,Limeri of Awa, Oba Abib Awokoya, Oloru of Oru-Ijebu, Oba AbdulRasak Adebanjo, Bejeroku of Oke-Agbo, Oba Stephen Adekoya and Olokine of Ojowo, Oba Olusesan Banjo.
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