The initiative, spearheaded by the founder of the foundation, Mr. Quadri Ibrahim Adeniyi, popularly known as “EnioObanke,” saw more than 200 beneficiaries receive grants aimed at boosting their businesses and improving their livelihoods.
Speaking during the programme on Friday in Abeokuta, Adeniyi, a businessman and government contractor, said the intervention was part of his commitment to giving back to society and supporting grassroots development.
According to him, over 200 market women received ₦100,000 each to support and expand their businesses, while artisans including tailors, painters and other skilled workers were also empowered.
He added that 50 students received ₦50,000 each as educational support, a gesture that would be sustained every academic session, while computers were donated to 10 outstanding students.
“This is not the first time we are carrying out this kind of intervention. We believe that while giving alms is commendable, service to humanity is even greater. What we are doing today is our own way of touching lives and giving back to the community ,” Adeniyi said.
He described the programme as part of the corporate social responsibility of his foundation interests and urged beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunities provided to them.
Commenting on the nation’s economy, Adeniyi expressed confidence in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying entrepreneurs were beginning to benefit from government policies.
“As a businessman, I can say that there is an enabling environment for entrepreneurs to thrive. There may be challenges, but many people are also making progress. I urge Nigerians to remain patient and continue to support President Tinubu because after hardship comes ease,” he stated.
“If more individuals replicate what we are witnessing here today, the impact on our communities will be enormous. Yesterday, about 200 women benefited and today another set of about 200 people have been empowered. Imagine if thousands of well-meaning Nigerians take up similar initiatives, the dividends of democracy would be felt directly by the people,” the chairman said.
He stressed that development should be people-centred and praised Adeniyi for using his success to uplift others .
“This is not about politics. This is about a young man who has been blessed and has decided to extend that blessing to others. That is the kind of leadership and community spirit we should encourage,” he added.
Speaking on the issue of insecurity and misinformation, Oyegbola-Sodipo urged citizens to avoid spreading unverified information on social media.
“Some people are recycling old videos and reports simply to attract traffic to their social media pages. While security challenges exist, spreading fake news only worsens public fear. We should support security agencies and allow them to do their work” he said.
“This young man believes he has benefited from government policies and opportunities, and he has chosen to return home to share part of those benefits with his people. His late father was known for his commitment to community service and politics, and it is encouraging to see him continue that legacy,” Tella said.
The lawmaker advised beneficiaries to manage the funds wisely and cultivate discipline, integrity and accountability in their business dealings.
“Money alone does not guarantee success in business. What is most important is discipline, trust and integrity. If you earn less than you spend, you are already creating problems for yourself. The beneficiaries must learn how to grow this capital, manage their expenses and build sustainable businesses that can support their families and eventually help others,” he said.
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abeokuta North Local Government, Alhaja Faidat Sarumi Akintunde, also lauded the founder of the foundation for the initiative.
She recalled the contributions of Adeniyi’s late father to the party and community development, noting that the empowerment programme reflected the family’s tradition of service.
“I appreciate this noble gesture and I encourage all beneficiaries, especially the women, to use the money judiciously. Let it serve as capital for growth and expansion so that the impact of this intervention can be felt for years to come,” she said.
Several beneficiaries who spoke at the event expressed gratitude to the Eniobanke Foundation, describing the support as timely and impactful. They pledged to invest the funds in their businesses and make productive use of the opportunities provided.
