Kosofe Cares ₦100m Empowerment Scheme Reaches Grand Finale as 250 Youths Receive ₦25m
By Emmanuel Daniji
The Chairman of Kosofe Local Government Area, Barrister Moyosore Adedoyin Ogunlewe, on Monday brought the Kosofe Cares ₦100 Million Empowerment Scheme to a successful close with the disbursement of ₦25 million to 250 youths at the Council Secretariat, Ojota, Lagos.
The empowerment initiative, championed by Barr. Ogunlewe, was designed and implemented in four strategic phases to ensure inclusive economic growth and measurable grassroots impact across the local government. Since its commencement on November 17, the scheme has empowered a total of 1,000 residents, with ₦25 million disbursed in each phase, culminating in an overall investment of ₦100 million.
At the youth-focused final phase, the Chairman, represented by the immediate past Secretary to the Local Government (SLG), Hon. Fatai Gbadebo, described the programme as a deliberate investment in human capital rather than a handout. He explained that the youth phase was targeted at unlocking creativity, entrepreneurship, and job creation among young people who represent the future of Kosofe.
The empowerment scheme was structured to address different segments of the population. The first phase catered to residents across the seven wards of Kosofe, providing financial relief to households. The second phase, held on November 25, focused on artisans and tradesmen whose skills drive the local economy. The third phase, conducted on December 8, empowered widows in recognition of their resilience and contributions to economic stability. The final phase saw ₦25 million shared among 250 youths.
Barr. Ogunlewe urged beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly by starting or expanding businesses, acquiring additional skills, and creating employment opportunities for others. He emphasized that the empowerment support comes with a responsibility to succeed, contribute meaningfully to community development, and serve as role models to other youths.
He further noted that the Kosofe Cares Empowerment Scheme aligns with the grassroots development vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the THEMES+ Agenda of Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reflecting his administration’s commitment to inclusive prosperity. According to him, empowering 1,000 residents with ₦100 million demonstrates that governance at the local level can be compassionate, accountable, and transformative.
Addressing concerns making the rounds, the Council Leader, Hon. Femi Oyesile, dismissed rumours suggesting that the empowerment scheme lacked legislative approval. He stated that the visible and widespread benefits enjoyed by constituents clearly show the backing of the Legislative Arm of the council.
He reaffirmed the legislature’s full support for Barr. Ogunlewe and disclosed that even larger empowerment initiatives are being planned, adding that the Chairman’s achievements are evident across communities within Kosofe Local Government Area.
In her remarks, the Council Manager commended Barr. Ogunlewe for his people-oriented leadership, describing the empowerment scheme as one that delivers direct benefits to residents at the grassroots. She assured participants that more empowerment programmes would be rolled out in the coming year and advised beneficiaries to utilise the funds judiciously.
Also speaking, the CDC Chairman, Hon. Segun Babatunde, praised the Chairman’s passion for youth development, noting that dedicating the final phase of the scheme to youths underscores his commitment to securing the future of Kosofe. He encouraged beneficiaries to make productive use of the opportunity.
The Deputy Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Kosofe Local Government Branch, Comrade Adebayo Isiaka, described the initiative as a bold and timely intervention. He noted that many youths possess skills but lack the capital needed to start or grow their businesses.
“This empowerment will help many young people grow their capital base and even establish their own ventures,” he said. He added that the programme also benefited students in higher institutions who face challenges funding their education, helping to reduce financial pressure on both students and parents.
Comrade Isiaka expressed confidence that the beneficiaries would maximise the opportunity, while Comrade Amos also lauded Barr. Ogunlewe for his strong commitment to youth development, stressing that his programmes have positively impacted both the economic and educational lives of young people in Kosofe Local Government.
The grand finale of the Kosofe Cares ₦100 Million Empowerment Scheme was widely described by beneficiaries and stakeholders as a landmark initiative that has set a new standard for inclusive and people-focused governance at the grassroots.
