In a strong demonstration of compassionate leadership and people-focused governance, the Executive Chairman of Igbogbo/Bayeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Omo’ba Hammed Olalekan Aroyewun (HOA), has distributed over 2,000 food packs alongside cash transfers to residents across the LCDA under the Ounje HOA & Cash Transfer Palliative Programme (Yuletide Edition).
The large-scale intervention, held on Tuesday, 23rd December 2025, was designed to ease the economic burden on households, particularly the elderly, widows, women, and other vulnerable groups, while ensuring families enjoy relief during the yuletide season.
Yuletide Relief for Vulnerable Residents
From the early hours of the day, residents from different wards of Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA gathered peacefully at the venue as neatly packaged food items and direct cash support were distributed in an orderly, transparent, and dignified manner. The atmosphere was filled with excitement, gratitude, and chants of appreciation, as beneficiaries described the intervention as timely and impactful.
Many beneficiaries noted that the combination of food items and cash assistance would go a long way in meeting their immediate household needs during the festive season.
Chairman Reaffirms Commitment to People-Centred Governance
Speaking at the venue, Omo’ba Hammed Aroyewun explained that the programme was part of his administration’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of residents.
According to him, governance must go beyond infrastructure and policies to directly touch the lives of the people at the grassroots. He stated that the food distribution and cash transfers were aimed at reducing hunger, supporting families, and promoting social stability within the LCDA.
The chairman also appreciated President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting Local Government autonomy, describing it as a historic decision that has empowered councils to deliver meaningful interventions at the grassroots. He further thanked Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, for his continued support for local governance.
He added that the initiative fulfilled a key campaign promise, noting that while roads and physical infrastructure are being developed, “stomach infrastructure” must also be addressed as part of the dividends of democracy. He assured residents that the programme would be sustained annually and that more people-centred initiatives would follow.
Economic Empowerment to Begin in 2026
Omo’ba Aroyewun also announced that plans were underway to roll out economic empowerment and employment programmes in early 2026 to boost productivity and improve livelihoods. He encouraged residents to continue showing compassion and unity within the community.
Goodwill Messages Pour In
Delivering a goodwill message, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, a member of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), commended the chairman for fulfilling his promises and urged the council to place increased focus on the education sector as a foundation for sustainable development.
Also speaking, Chief Jelil Oduntan Balogun, a respected community leader in Igbogbo/Bayeku, praised the initiative, describing it as a reflection of responsive leadership that understands the realities of the people.
The APC Chairman of Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA, Hon. Taiwo Orenuga, applauded the chairman’s consistency in delivering people-oriented programmes and reaffirmed the party’s support for initiatives that improve grassroots welfare.
Former Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Gbenga Oshin, also commended the administration for setting a strong example of inclusive governance and social responsibility.
Beneficiaries Express Gratitude
Several beneficiaries expressed heartfelt appreciation for the intervention.
Mrs. Olamide Benson from Bayeku described the support as a lifeline, noting that the food items and cash would help her family celebrate the festive season with dignity.
Mr. Olamide Samson from Agunfoye said the programme restored hope, adding that such gestures show that government truly cares about the people.
Similarly, Mrs. Biola from Igbogbo thanked the chairman for remembering vulnerable residents, offering prayers for continued strength and wisdom for the administration.
A Model of Grassroots Leadership
The Ounje HOA & Cash Transfer Palliative Programme once again positions Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA as a model of grassroots-focused administration where compassion meets purposeful leadership. With over 2,000 residents supported, the initiative reinforces the council’s commitment to inclusive governance, social welfare, and sustainable community development.
As the yuletide season unfolds, residents remain hopeful that such impactful interventions will continue to strengthen unity, resilience, and shared prosperity across Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA.
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