By Gbenga Sodeinde
The Presidential Community Engagement Office (South-West), operating under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, has recorded significant milestones in 2024.
Through initiatives aimed at improving health, education, economic empowerment, and infrastructure, the office has reinforced the Presidency’s commitment to grassroots development and inclusive governance.
The year began with the Change the Narrative Now malaria campaign in Lagos and Ekiti States, which targeted vulnerable communities with life-saving resources.
This initiative provided mosquito nets, medical supplies, and awareness programmes, addressing one of the region’s most pressing health challenges.
In education, the office launched the BAT-STEM: Inspiring Growth Through Education and Mentorship programme. Over 9,000 pupils and teachers across Oyo and Osun States, in communities such as Lanlate, Eruwa, Modakeke, and Iwo, benefited from the initiative.
Scholarships, school supplies, and instructional materials were distributed to foster learning. Special needs students at Eruwa Special Basic School were also included, demonstrating the office’s commitment to inclusive education.
Teachers and community members received food items to further support their roles in driving educational development.
Empowering small businesses has been a key focus under the Enterprise Development Pillar of Project SWIFT. Rural entrepreneurs received generators to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), enhancing productivity and promoting economic growth.
To address water scarcity, the office partnered with Nestlé to install state-of-the-art water treatment systems in rural communities, ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water. This collaboration exemplifies the innovative public-private partnerships championed by the office.
The Presidential Community Engagement Office (South-West) also prioritised grassroots interaction through Citizens’ Assemblies and youth forums.
In Ado-Ekiti, discussions on the Renewed Hope Agenda highlighted its impact on citizens’ lives. Empowerment tools, including makeup and barbing kits, were distributed to attendees, fostering self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
Additionally, door-to-door outreach in Ewenla and Anaye further strengthened connections with local communities.
Traditional leaders and community stakeholders were actively involved in the office’s initiatives. Visits to Igbado and Igushin in Ondo State facilitated direct engagement with traditional rulers, council members, and community bodies.
These engagements fostered mutual understanding and enabled the distribution of food items to address immediate needs.
Throughout the year, the office worked closely with public and private sector stakeholders. Collaborative meetings with organisations such as the Nigeria Export Promotion Council and Nestlé mobilised resources and expertise, driving sustainable development across the South-West.
From health campaigns to educational interventions and economic empowerment, the Presidential Community Engagement Office (South-West) has consistently delivered on its mandate.
As the year draws to a close, the office remains dedicated to improving the lives of citizens through impactful initiatives and meaningful collaborations under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
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