By Olaniyi Anthony
AYEDADE – 4/07/2025
Hon. Abdul-Jeleel Abiodun Samakin, the Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Osun State on Media Monitoring and Director of Youth and Women Mobilization for the Senate Deputy Minority Leader, Senator Olalere Oyewumi, has launched a far-reaching grassroots initiative in Ayedade Local Government. The program, which commenced in Ward 06, Lagere-Amola Quarters, Odeomu, is designed to support youth engagement, medical outreach, business empowerment, and the welfare of the less privileged.
Speaking at the launch, Comrade Samakin said that the initiative is a response to the financial and health-related challenges faced by residents. “We noticed our people are going through a lot, and this is our little way of easing their burden,” he stated. The program is set to impact over 1,000 beneficiaries across all 11 wards in Ayedade Local Government within a five-year period, with beneficiaries already selected from various polling units starting from Ward 06.
As part of the initiative’s first phase, Hon. Samakin disbursed a total sum of ₦1 million in business support grants to selected small-scale traders and artisans across Ward 06 in Odeomu. The beneficiaries, drawn from various polling units, received financial assistance tailored to boost their existing businesses and ease the burden of operational costs in the current economic climate. The fund distribution was carried out transparently in the presence of community leaders and stakeholders. Beneficiaries expressed deep appreciation for the timely intervention, describing it as a lifeline that would strengthen their businesses and improve household livelihoods.
He explained that the youth engagement component will be participatory, involving direct dialogue with young people across the community to identify their challenges and aspirations. "This is not just an empowerment project, it’s a platform for listening, for connection, and for delivering the feedback of our youth to the Executive Governor, who is known for his responsiveness," he added. The medical outreach arm of the initiative aims to improve access to quality healthcare services for grassroots dwellers, particularly women and children.
Comrade Samakin affirmed that the entire initiative aligns with the vision of Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, whose administration remains committed to bringing governance closer to the people. “Our governor is passionate about transforming Osun through infrastructure and human development. This initiative complements his efforts by ensuring that our people feel the true dividends of democracy,” he noted.
He further urged residents to remain supportive of the current administration and the People Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2026 elections. “Let us sustain the momentum we built in the last election. I encourage everyone to maintain strong grassroots structures and be ready to deliver every polling unit for the PDP,” he said. He also appreciated the local leaders, coordinators, and volunteers who helped actualize the initiative, noting that it had been in the works since 2024.
In closing, Hon. Samakin congratulated the first batch of beneficiaries and reassured others across Wards 1 to 11 to be patient as the program unfolds. “This is just the beginning. Our goal is to reach every corner of Ayedade Local Government. With the support of our leaders and the trust of our people, we are confident that this initiative will leave a lasting impact on the lives of many,” he concluded.
