Tomorrow being Wednesday, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State is set to launch a series of interventions aimed at alleviating the economic burden faced by residents amidst rising costs of living.

These interventions, spanning transportation, education, health, and agriculture, will be rolled out under the umbrella of EKO CARES.

The decision to implement these measures follows the recent removal of fuel subsidies, which led to a surge in living expenses for Lagosians. Governor Sanwo-Olu had previously announced a 50% reduction in fares across all government transport platforms on February 8, 2023, in response to the economic challenges.

After assessing the situation, the fare reduction was adjusted to 25%. Additionally, initiatives such as the Ounje Eko Sunday market, offering a 25% discount on food items, have been operational for six weeks. Civil servants from levels one to 14 were instructed to work three days a week, and a wage increase of N35,000 was granted to all civil servants. Furthermore, 15,000 women from various local government areas received financial support of N50,000 each to bolster their businesses.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also announced free delivery services for expectant women in government hospitals, among other measures.

To oversee the implementation of these initiatives, a non-partisan Special Dispensation Advisory Council was established, comprising eminent Nigerians, rights activists, religious leaders, youth representatives, and opposition party leaders, with Governor Sanwo-Olu serving as chair and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat as alternate chairman.

The unveiling ceremony for further details on these interventions is scheduled to take place tomorrow at the Governor’s Office in Alausa, Ikeja.