Epe Traditional Ruler Empowers 300 Community Members With Vocational Tools
By IDRIS OLUKOYA
A traditional ruler in Epe Divison of Lagos State, Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, has empowered 300 members of his community with vocational tools to promote self-reliance.
The equipment, including sewing machines, grinders and hair dryers, were presented to the beneficiaries on Friday as part of activities to mark Ogunsanwo’s fifth coronation anniversary at Ilara, Epe.
The initiative was facilitated by Mrs. Bolanle Ogunsanwo, Wife of the traditional ruler, in collaboration with Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency.
The royal father said at the event that the gesture was aimed at providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and reducing dependency among the beneficiaries.
“No fewer than 300 residents and indigenes benefitted from the empowerment programme.
“My advice for the beneficiaries is to make best use of the equipment giving to them for self sustainance,” he said.
In a related development, Prof. John Obafunwa, the Director-General, Nigeria Institute of Medical Research, facilitated a free medical outreach from which over 300 members of the community benefitted.
The outreach was also one of the activities to mark the anniversary.
Obafunwa said that the medical services included free eye tests and provision of eyeglasses, dental care, blood sugar and blood pressure checks, as well as provision of drugs for various ailments.
“This medical initiative is designed to ensure our people are medically fit.
“I have both education and medical backgrounds, and it is my duty to give back to my community,” Obafunwa, who hails from Ilara, said.
He noted that the services began with a community fitness walk.
Report say that Obafunwa will be honoured with the chieftaincy title of Balogun of Ilara Kingdom on Saturday, also as part of the activities marking the anniversary.
One of the beneficiaries of the outreach, Mrs. Fatimah Agbomeji, lauded the organisers for the services.
“I have been having eye problems, but I received free eye glasses today. I am happy and relieved,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Mr. Jamiu Adekoya, expressed gratitude after receiving dental care.
“I had a tooth problem that was causing me severe pains. The medical personnel helped to remove it at no cost.
“I thank the organisers for this rare opportunity,” he said.
(NAN)
