In a bid to cushion effect of the rising cost of living, the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has launched the Eko Care program, to support vulnerable Lagosians with food and other needs.
The initiative seeks to alleviate hunger and promote economic empowerment for thousands of households across the state.
During launch of the programme on Wednesday at the State House in Ikeja, Sanwo-Olu explained that the initiative was designed to ensure food security for residents.
He said: “We are committed to ensuring that no resident of Lagos State goes to bed hungry. Eko Care is a vital step towards achieving this goal and creating a more equitable society for all.”
He disclosed that under the initiative, over 500,000 Lagosians would be receiving food packs to cushion the inflation on food.
According to him, the 500,000 food packs have been distributed to the
20 local governments and 37 local council development areas of the state, for onward distribution to the beneficiaries.
The governor encouraged stakeholders to make food available to the less privileged, rather than stockpiling it.
Sanwo-Olu also disclosed that a subsidized food market, “Ounje Eko,” has been initiated in every local government across the state, where residents can purchase food items at lower prices with an unparalleled 25% discount on all items, noting that the markets operate only on Sundays.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotosho, commended the governor for fulfilling his campaign promises to Lagosians.
He said: “Governor Sanwo-Olu has distinguished himself as a leader whose word is his bond,” he said. Omotosho also indicated that the launch of Eko Care marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to tackle food insecurity and promote sustainable development.
