Sanwo-Olu’s Lagos Support Scheme Expands Financial Relief Programme as Over ₦2.4bn Touches 8,690 Lives

 

Thousands of vulnerable Lagosians have received critical lifelines from the state government under the Sanwo-Olu Listens Financial Assistance Programme, with over N2.46 billion disbursed to 8,690 residents so far. This was revealed by Dr Afolabi Tajudeen, Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, during the 2025 Lagos State Ministerial Press Briefing held Thursday in Ikeja.

The financial relief initiative, launched in 2020, continues to serve as a direct response to the economic struggles faced by the state's most disadvantaged. Whether grappling with overwhelming medical costs, eviction threats, or school fees, many residents have turned to the scheme for support.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration has positioned the programme not only as a social intervention but as a cornerstone of inclusive governance and economic empowerment. Afolabi described it as a "beacon of hope," and a vivid expression of the administration's resolve that no citizen should be sidelined by poverty or circumstance.

An additional N1.6 billion is scheduled for disbursement in the next two weeks, targeting about 1,000 more beneficiaries. Afolabi explained that the move is part of a broader Sallah palliative measure, aimed at reducing financial stress during religious festivities and ensuring dignity for those in need.

Beyond financial assistance, the Lagos government has rolled out multiple interventions to cushion the effects of economic hardship. The Eko Cares initiative, which supports small-scale entrepreneurs, has empowered over 6,000 individuals to create sustainable sources of income, fostering both self-reliance and resilience in local communities.

Another strategic focus has been maternal and child nutrition. Over N400 million has been allocated to improve mother and child health outcomes, with 6,280 beneficiaries reached within the last year. The funds have supported adequate nutrition, helping lay stronger developmental foundations for the next generation.

Public school students have also seen a nutritional boost under the Snacks for Thought programme. Nearly 12,000 pupils have been served daily balanced meals that include rice and diverse protein options. According to Afolabi, the initiative is already showing positive effects on learning and classroom engagement.

Meanwhile, civic engagement has grown significantly through the Citizens Gate digital platform, which received over 400,000 feedback entries from residents within the past year alone. This high volume of public input, Afolabi noted, has played a pivotal role in enhancing the government's responsiveness and tailoring policies to real-time citizen needs.

As the Sanwo-Olu administration marks the midpoint of its second term, these wide-reaching programmes reflect a strategy focused not just on temporary relief but on building pathways to economic stability. From cash assistance to nutritional support and grassroots entrepreneurship, the government continues to expand its commitment to ensuring that no Lagosian is left behind.