Rep. Babajimi Benson, the federal lawmaker representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, empowered more than 2,500 residents of Ikorodu Division on November 25, 2024, by distributing essential work tools and equipment.
The event, held at the Ikorodu Musical Village, demonstrated Rep. Benson’s commitment to community welfare and delivering the dividends of democracy to his constituents.
The successful support scheme, which attracted a large turnout, highlighted Rep. Benson’s continued dedication to community development and economic empowerment.
Residents received tools and equipment to aid in various trades and vocations, a gesture aimed at fostering independence and entrepreneurship within the Ikorodu community.
The empowerment initiative featured a wide range of items, including large and small freezers, hair dryers, industrial and manual sewing machines, grinding machines, generators, vulcanizing machines, solar panels, minibuses, tricycles, and fully stocked neighborhood shops.
Additionally, free medical checkups were provided to attendees, ensuring holistic support for the region.
The event was graced by an array of distinguished political leaders and stakeholders, reflecting its significance in the division.
Among the notable attendees were: Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Ashipa Kaoli Olusanya, Former Commissioner for Agriculture, Lagos State, Hon. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas, APC Lagos State Women Leader, Hon. Aro Moshood, Member, Lagos State House of Assembly Ikorodu Constituency II, Rep. Bayo Balogun, Federal House of Representatives Member ibeju lekki, Ogunbela Kunle, Pioneer Chairman, Ikorodu North LCDA, Ms. Bisola Kaoli Olusanya, Lagos Commissioner for Agriculture, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, APC Lagos State Party Chairman.
Bldr Adeola Adebisi Banjo, Chairman, Ikorodu North LCDA, Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo-Alogba, Chairman, Ijede LCDA, Hon. Wasiu Agoro, Chairman, Imota LCDA, Hon. Wasiu Adeshina, Chairman, Ikorodu Central LCDA, Bldr. Sesan Daini, Chairman, Igbogbo-Baiyeku LCDA,
Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, Former minister for works, Hon. Nurudeen Saka Sholaja, Former Member, Lagos State House of Assembly Ikorodu Constituency II, Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun, Lagos GAC Member and others.
Rep. Babajimi Benson highlighted the significance of the gesture, emphasizing that it was a way to thank the people of Ikorodu for their loyalty and hard work.
“This is not about me; it’s about the people,” he said.
He applauded the constituency for its exemplary performance in recent elections, where Ikorodu emerged first and second in both presidential and gubernatorial elections among the 20 local government areas.
“We need to compensate our people; we need to say thank you. They need to enjoy the fruits of their labour,” Benson noted, stressing the importance of acknowledging the people’s commitment to the progressive ethos of the party.
Beyond the empowerment initiative, Rep. Benson also shed light on a critical tax bill currently before the National Assembly, which he lauded as a game-changer for economic reform.
The proposed legislation exempts individuals earning ₦800,000 or less annually from paying taxes, a significant reduction from the previous 15% tax rate.
Additionally, the bill aims to consolidate tax collection, streamlining processes to eliminate multiple taxation by local and state governments.
“This is a step towards energizing the economy and supporting small and medium-scale businesses,” he explained.
“By 2025, Nigeria will earn the eminence that its good qualities offer. This bill exemplifies the vision of Mr. President to give Nigerians what they truly deserve.”
Rep. Benson’s stress that the empowerment will foster growth, reduce unemployment, and ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every corner of Ikorodu.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas, the APC Woman Leader for Lagos State, commended Hon. Benson’s consistent efforts in uplifting his constituents.
She emphasized the critical role of women in society and urged them to support government initiatives, stating: “Women are very important. My charge to women across Ikorodu and Lagos State at large is to cooperate with the government. From what I have seen here and in the past, this is not the first time I’m coming to Ikorodu for one of his projects. Hon. Benson is doing really well. Just observing him on the floor of the House, you know he is one of our legislators who represents us with excellence.”
Hon. Okoya-Thomas praised Benson’s proactive approach to community representation, noting his ability to connect legislative duties with grassroots development:
She further advised beneficiaries, particularly women, to utilize the equipment responsibly: “Everything given to women in this locality must be used well. We don’t want anyone to sell the equipment. Instead, they should use it to lift other women and improve their communities. This is just the beginning—more is coming, and our legislators are doing perfectly well.”
Sen. Ogunlewe, praised Rep. Babajimi Benson, for his unwavering commitment to the development of Ikorodu. He lauded Benson’s innovative and impactful programs, which have consistently targeted youth and community empowerment.
“Rep. Babajimi Benson has been doing exceptionally well, and we are proud of his achievements. I implore other representatives, from local councils to the House of Assembly, to improve their work and follow his example. ”
“Leadership is about making meaningful changes in the lives of the people, and JB has been a shining example of this,” Ogunlewe stated.
Sen. Ogunlewe further advised the beneficiaries to cherish the opportunity and make effective use of the equipment provided.
“These tools are meant to empower you and improve your quality of life. Please do not sell them; instead, use them well to build a better future for yourselves and your families,” he urged.
Asiwaju olorunfunmi Bashorun, lauded Rep. Benson for his commitment to grassroots development.
“This empowerment program is a big one for our community,” Basorun stated.
“It is an event that supports the grassroots and reminds us that JB has not forgotten us. His continuous efforts in uplifting Ikorodu residents deserve our utmost appreciation.”
Basorun further expressed gratitude to the people of Ikorodu for their overwhelming support during the last election, which contributed to Hon. Benson’s success.
He urged the community to maintain their political enthusiasm and unity in the upcoming elections. “I implore everyone in Ikorodu Division to come out during the next election and vote for someone who will do even more for our people. Your votes are powerful, and we need to ensure we continue to support leaders who prioritize our needs,” he said.
Hon. Bayo Balogun commended Rep. Benson for his visionary leadership, describing the program as a “forever empowerment” initiative.
According to him, the equipment distributed will provide lasting benefits by enabling recipients to generate income and support their families.
“This is an empowerment program that feeds people for life. Rep. Benson’s contributions to his community have truly gone a long way,” he said.
Ms. Bisola Kaoli Olusanya highlighted the agricultural dimension of the initiative, emphasizing its potential to boost food production in Lagos State.
She stated, “With more residents equipped to engage in productive ventures, especially in agriculture, we are set to witness an increase in food supply and enhanced food security in the state.”
Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi lauded Rep. Benson’s efforts emphasized the importance of experienced and impactful leadership in Parliament.
“The function of Parliament involves experience, and Rep. Benson has demonstrated this through his ability to give back to the people. ”
“This empowerment initiative is a testament to the promises we made to Nigerians – to support them and improve their quality of life,” he remarked.
Ojelabi further underscored the progressive agenda of the APC, expressing optimism about the ongoing reforms in the country.
“By the time we enter 2025, the reforms we have initiated will begin to manifest, bringing dividends that will benefit all. These reforms do not come on a platter of gold but require certain sacrifices. However, when the results start to show, it will validate the pains endured,” he stated.
He also commended Benson’s broader contributions to social development in Ikorodu, describing them as “enormous” and reflective of what the progressive movement stands for.
A resident of Ikorodu Central, Mr. Tunde Balogun was among the beneficiaries of a free vulcanizer machine provided through the federal lawmaker’s initiative.
Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Balogun highlighted the significance of the donation, noting that the machine’s market price exceeds ₦100,000.
He emphasized that acquiring such equipment independently would have posed a considerable financial challenge.
“The vulcanizer machine has not only improved my work but has also increased my source of income,” Mr. Balogun stated.
“I am deeply grateful to Hon. Benson for his generosity and dedication to supporting the people of Ikorodu.”
Another beneficiary from Citizens Base who gets Mini Bus Empowerment Initiative, Mr. Muyideen Kalejaye has expressed heartfelt appreciation to Rep. Benson for the life-changing opportunity.
Speaking to Ikorodu News Network (INN), Mr. Kalejaye described the empowerment program as not just a means of support but a divine blessing that would significantly improve his livelihood.
“This is more than just an empowerment; it is a blessing that will change my life and the lives of my family members,” he said, visibly emotional as he received the mini bus.
Mr. Kalejaye also urged fellow beneficiaries to make proper use of the resources provided rather than succumbing to the temptation of selling them.
“I plead with other beneficiaries to utilize this equipment wisely for their intended purposes. It is an opportunity to uplift ourselves, not something to trade away,” he emphasized.
Furthermore, he called on other political leaders and stakeholders to emulate Rep. Benson’s model of empowerment, which directly addresses the needs of the people.
According to him, such initiatives not only promote self-reliance but also foster community development by equipping individuals with tools to succeed.
The program has been hailed as a testament to the power of inclusive representation and a call to action for leaders to prioritize impactful projects that resonate with the needs of their communities.
The empowerment program, according to other stakeholders, reflects Rep. Benson’s commitment to his constituents and his resolve to address unemployment and poverty through practical solutions.
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