The wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has extended Christmas welfare support to traders and artisans across the state as part of efforts to ease economic pressure and spread festive cheer.
The empowerment programme was held at the Adunni Olayinka Hall, Office of the First Lady, Ado-Ekiti.
Speaking at the event through her Senior Special Assistant on Political Matters, Hon. Toyin Adepoju, Dr. Oyebanji expressed appreciation to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for his unwavering support for various groups and associations across Ekiti State.
Hon. Adepoju commended the impactful initiatives of the Oyebanji-led administration, describing them as a reflection of its commitment to inclusive governance and grassroots development.
She further highlighted the First Lady’s consistent interventions in supporting traders, widows, artisans, orphans, and other vulnerable groups across Ekiti State through various empowerment and welfare programmes.
According to her, over 1,500 beneficiaries received welfare packages during the programme, reaffirming Dr. Oyebanji’s dedication to improving livelihoods and promoting social welfare across the state.
She encouraged beneficiaries to reciprocate the gesture by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of forthcoming elections.
Earlier, in their separate goodwill messages, the Vice Chairman of Ikole Local Government, Hon. Bukola Idowu; Hon. Cecilia Oluwadare; and the Chairman of the Private Sector in Ekiti State, Comrade Abiodun Gbenga, described the First Lady’s gesture as rare and unprecedented.
They pledged the continued support of the people of Ekiti State for Governor Oyebanji’s second-term bid.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Iyalaje of Mojere, Chief (Mrs.) Alice Apalowo, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the First Lady for her generosity, noting that Dr. Oyebanji has brought smiles to the faces of many Ekiti residents, especially during the festive season.
She commended the First Lady for her compassion and commitment to positively impacting lives across the state.