The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, on Friday disbursed N100 million in business support grants to traders, artisans, and farmers in Oyo State. The event, tagged ‘2025 Mega Empowerment and Economic Relief Programme Series,’ took place at the Bayo Adelabu Foundation House in Ibadan, the state capital.
Adelabu, a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and a governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), said the grant was aimed at easing the economic hardship faced by residents and strengthening small-scale businesses across the state.
According to him, the empowerment initiative forms part of his long-term commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and driving economic growth at the grassroots. He clarified that the programme was not politically driven but an act of gratitude and service to humanity.
“This empowerment is not about politics. I am only thanking God for His mercy by giving back to society,” Adelabu stated.
The minister also acknowledged the economic difficulties confronting many Nigerians, noting the effects of inflation and rising costs on small business owners. He called for more targeted interventions to uplift traders, artisans, and farmers in local communities.
Adelabu urged Nigerians to remain patient and hopeful, stressing that the ongoing economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration would soon produce positive results. “President Tinubu is God-sent to Nigeria. Though things are tough now, Nigerians will soon reap the gains of their sacrifices,” he added.
A guest speaker at the event, Mr Olutayo Akinleye, commended Adelabu’s efforts, describing the initiative as a significant step toward economic empowerment and entrepreneurial growth. Akinleye, a financial expert, encouraged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely and avoid wasteful spending.
Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude to Adelabu, stating that the financial support would help them expand their businesses and improve their living standards.
