From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Oyo State government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare of residents by providing financial support to those affected by market fire outbreaks. The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Toyin Balogun, announced this during the weekend at the launch of the N20 million livelihood support grant for fire victims.
Mrs. Balogun emphasised that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde prioritises empowering citizens to recover from economic setbacks and achieve self-sufficiency. She explained that the grants were distributed to beneficiaries from Gbaremu, Sango, Oke-Itunu, and Oranyan markets, all of which suffered significant losses due to fire incidents.
“This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to the welfare of its people,” Balogun said. “After assessing the economic impact of these fire outbreaks, we realised that each victim has numerous dependents, making the need for intervention even more urgent. Governor Makinde’s welfarist approach has led to this swift approval and disbursement to help the victims regain economic stability.”
She added that this disbursement is the first phase of the intervention, with plans to assist victims in other affected markets. In addition to financial aid, the government is organising training sessions for market traders to prevent and mitigate future fire incidents.
Former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, praised the Makinde administration as “a government of the masses,” highlighting its dedication to supporting citizens in need. Similarly, Chief Babatunde Tijani, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, commended the governor for his pro-people policies and empathy toward the victims.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Chief (Mrs.) Borode Omotayo Bolaji, Iyaloja of Ibadan North Local Government, expressed gratitude for the timely support. “I was pleasantly surprised by the amount provided. This intervention will go a long way in helping us recover,” she said.
The event, attended by market leaders and government officials, underscored the state government’s determination to support its citizens and promote economic resilience in the face of challenges.