By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Hon. Godfrey Adekoye, Senior Special Assistant to the Kogi State Governor on Youth Empowerment, on Saturday empowered women and youths of Lokoja Ward D with ₦3 million cash support, 20 grinding machines, and 50 Moniepoint POS terminals.
The fourth edition of the empowerment programme, held at Madabo Street Open Space, attracted a large crowd of residents, political stakeholders, women groups, youths, and community leaders who gathered to witness the distribution exercise.
Speaking at the event, the Lokoja APC leader, Rt. Hon. Alfa Imam, commended Hon. Adekoye for what he described as a consistent and impactful grassroots intervention, noting that the initiative reflects responsive leadership and commitment to community development.
He urged other political office holders to emulate the gesture by investing in programmes that directly uplift the people.
Also speaking, the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, described the empowerment scheme as a sustainable model for poverty reduction and youth engagement.
She encouraged other appointees to continue implementing people-focused initiatives that improve livelihoods.
Hon. Adekoye explained that the programme was designed to promote self-reliance among beneficiaries, adding that the cash support was meant to boost small businesses, while the grinding machines and POS terminals were provided to strengthen micro-enterprises and expand financial inclusion within the community.
He reaffirmed his commitment to youth and women empowerment, stressing that reducing unemployment remains key to promoting peace and development at the grassroots.
Other dignitaries at the event included commissioners for Water Resources, Engr. Yahaya Farouk, and Environment, Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun, alongside other top government officials, local government representatives, and party stakeholders.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Hajiya Zainab Sulaiman expressed gratitude to Hon. Adekoye, describing the intervention as timely and life-changing for many families in the ward.
Highlight of the occasion was the presentation of awards of recognition to Hon. Godfrey Adekoye and other prominent sons and daughters of Ward D by the Ward D Development Association, in appreciation of their contributions to the growth and development of the community.
The event ended on a celebratory note with prayers offered for sustained empowerment programmes and continued development in Lokoja Ward D.
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