In a bid to address the economic hardships following the removal of fuel subsidy, the Epe Local Government in Lagos State this week rolled out a targeted relief program for farmers in the area.
Executive Chairman of Epe LG, Princess Surah Animashaun spearheaded an empowerment initiative this week, benefiting 200 local farmers.
The event, held at the Council Secretariat Hall, saw each beneficiary receive a grant of 50,000 Naira along with grain seeds.
“It’s designed to alleviate the pressure on our fish farmers who may have suffered losses as a result of the rain as well as other farmers to maximize profits at any cost, especially during these challenging times.” Animashaun said.
Other items distributed include fishing nets and related tools to fishermen.
Vice Chairman, Hon. Sikiru Adeniyi echoed this sentiment, stating, “This program is just one of many we’ve planned to ease economic pressures on our residents. This is the second in the series and we plan to do more in the days ahead.
“We urge the beneficiaries to use these grants judiciously.”
Expressing gratitude for the Council’s initiative, Publicity Secretary of the Lagos State Fishermen Association, Ahmed Surakat said, “although little compared to the prices of fishing implements, the Chairman has tried.
“We will therefore have a meeting of benefitting fishermen and fish farmers to see what we can do to reduce the high cost of fish,” Surakat added.
Other beneficiaries thanked the Chairman for her thoughtfulness with one remarking, ” this is the first Chairman to ever give farmers palliatives or grants in EPE local Government.”
Another admitted that “this support will significantly improve our livelihoods.”
The local government has pledged to introduce more social programs in the coming weeks as part of its ongoing efforts to support Epe residents during this period of economic uncertainty.
