By Lukman Olabiyi
Lagos State Government has commenced the disbursement of N1.6 billion to vulnerable residents under its social intervention programme aimed at poverty alleviation.
At the official flag-off of the 2024 disbursement on Monday, 250 indigent residents received cheques ranging from N200,000 to N1.5 million, depending on their individual requests.
Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Tajudeen Afolabi, explained that the financial support was tailored to meet the specific needs of each applicant, including funding for education, healthcare, small-scale businesses, and housing support.
“The money varies depending on what you asked from the government. In your letter, some of you requested assistance for school fees, some for medical bills, others for rent or business support. Based on these, the sub-committee reviews and recommends your application for approval,”Afolabi said.
He emphasized that eligibility was strictly based on merit and documentation, not connections.
Required documents include the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA) ID, National Identification Number (NIN), a passport photograph, and a valid phone number.
“You don’t have to know anyone before you receive assistance. If your request is justifiable and well-documented, you’ll be considered,”he assured.
Afolabi noted that the next batch of beneficiaries will receive their cheques shortly after the upcoming Sallah festivities.
The disbursement forms part of the state’s ongoing social welfare initiative, ‘Sanwo-Olu Listens,’ which began in 2020. Since its inception, the programme has supported 8,690 vulnerable residents with a total of N2.461 billion.
“As we mark the second year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term, it’s important to highlight this continued commitment to supporting Lagosians in need,” Afolabi said.