The Lagos State Government has disbursed a total of N2.46 billion to 8,690 residents through its Sanwo-Olu Listens Financial Assistance Programme, a key social intervention aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens across the state.
Dr. Afolabi Tajudeen, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, revealed this during the 2025 Lagos State Ministerial Press Briefing held in Ikeja on Thursday, part of the events marking the second year of the governor’s second term.
Addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable residents, ranging from high medical expenses to difficulties paying rent, funding education, and sustaining small businesses, Dr. Tajudeen explained that the programme, launched in 2020, was designed to offer direct financial relief and to demonstrate the government’s commitment to compassion, inclusivity, and economic empowerment.
He described the initiative as a beacon of hope for many Lagosians, reinforcing the administration’s principle that “no one should be left behind.”
“So far, N2.46 billion has been disbursed through this initiative, positively impacting 8,690 lives,” he stated. F
urthermore, Dr. Tajudeen announced that an additional N1.6 billion would be distributed within the next two weeks to approximately 1,000 beneficiaries. This upcoming Sallah palliative is part of ongoing efforts to ease the financial burdens of the most disadvantaged residents during festive periods.
He said that the Sanwo-Olu Listens social intervention programme is continuous, creating pathways for economic participation and stability and underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to poverty reduction and inclusive growth.
In addition to the financial assistance, Dr. Tajudeen highlighted the success of the Eko Cares initiative, which has empowered over 6,000 vulnerable entrepreneurs to develop sustainable income sources, thereby boosting economic resilience and family welfare.
He also noted that more than N400 million was allocated to support mother, infant, and child development programs focused on nutrition. “We were able to reach 6,280 beneficiaries in the year under review. We intend to build on this by God’s grace,” he added.
To further address child welfare, the government launched the Snacks for Thought initiative, providing daily balanced meals to public school students to enhance their nutrition and learning outcomes. According to Dr. Tajudeen, the programme fed 11,965 pupils with meals consisting of rice and various protein options, contributing positively to their wellbeing.
On citizen engagement, Dr. Tajudeen reported that the state received over 400,000 pieces of feedback from residents through the Citizens Gate digital platform in the past year. He said this volume of input has significantly enhanced government responsiveness and inclusiveness, ensuring that the administration remains connected to the needs and concerns of Lagosians.
