By: Manoah Kikekon
 |
| Setonji David and the equipments he shared to Badagry resident |
BADAGRY, LAGOS – Hon. Engr. Setonji S. David, the Deputy Chief Whip of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has empowered over 1,000 constituents with critical business tools and direct financial support.
The large-scale empowerment programme, held on Saturday, 11th October 2025, at the Nigerian French Language Village in Ajara, Badagry, marked a pivotal investment in the local economy of Lagos State's Badagry Constituency II.
The event was strategically designed to reach the most vulnerable and enterprising segments of the community. A diverse cross-section of beneficiaries, including petty traders, aspiring entrepreneurs, youths, senior citizens, and other vulnerable groups, were carefully selected from across the constituency. This targeted approach ensured that the support reached those with the most immediate need and the potential to create a tangible economic ripple effect throughout the Badagry area.
At the heart of the initiative was the distribution of essential equipment aimed at fostering self-reliance and sustaining small businesses. Recipients were presented with high-demand items such as grinding machines, hair dryers, generator sets, and modern barbing kits. Complementing these tangible assets were direct cash empowerment grants, providing immediate relief and vital seed capital to either launch new ventures or expand existing ones, a strategy praised by local economic observers.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Hon. Setonji David reflected on his journey since first being elected in 2015, expressing profound gratitude for the consistent trust of his constituents. He framed the empowerment as a core part of his legislative mission. "Empowerment to me is not just about giving; it's about creating opportunities," David stated. "It's about equipping people with the tools, resources, and support they need to sustain themselves. We have seen the power of empowerment in our own community; when we support small businesses, we create jobs and stimulate the local economy."
The lawmaker also catalogued his broader developmental footprint in the constituency, underscoring a commitment that extends beyond one-off events. He highlighted several completed and ongoing projects, including the construction and furnishing of a block of six classrooms at Comprehensive Secondary School, Ajara, the foundation laying for new school buildings at State High School, Ibereko, and in Ipara, as well as the renovation of L.A Primary School, Age Mowo, and various environmental sanitation projects.
The event also drew accolades from top party officials, with the Lagos State APC Chairman, Mr. Cornelious Ojelabi, commending Hon. David's representation. "I have heard of various projects he has done and now this empowerment. From the comments of the people from his constituency, you can see that they are satisfied with him," Ojelabi remarked.
He urged beneficiaries to reciprocate the gesture by making good use of the tools, emphasizing the party's commitment to fulfilling promises.