The Senator representing Ondo Central Senatorial District, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as a new phase of “mega empowerment” currently transforming the lives of people across his senatorial district.
Senator Adegbonmire spoke at an empowerment programme personally initiated by him and tagged the Adegbonmire Renewed Hope Mega Empowerment Programme, held in Akure for members of his constituency.
The Nation reports that items distributed at the programme included motorcycles, tricycles, generators, sewing machines, freezers, industrial machines, wheelchairs, dryers, educational materials, cash rewards and other livelihood-support tools.
Speaking, Senator Adegbonmire said President Tinubu’s emphasis on inclusive development is becoming increasingly evident at the grassroots, with various empowerment interventions reaching the people.
He noted that the economic reforms and intervention programmes of the Tinubu administration have brought development to several communities, with many witnessing improved access to livelihood support and small-scale economic growth.
“As you can see, it is mega empowerment for renewed hope. That is the slogan of President Bola Tinubu. As a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the National Assembly, I am happy to continue to support Mr. President because I think he’s doing very well.
“Since he cannot do everything himself, those of us who are supporting him must do everything to ensure that people feel the impact of Mr. President. So I thank President Bola Tinubu for giving me this opportunity to give back to my constituents,” the senator said.
He added: “The President is not going to come to Ondo State to campaign. We will campaign for him. This is part of the campaign for Mr. President. Hence, it is in support of the President, in support of the state government also.
“If we do well, then the government here has done well. The President has done well. So, this is in support of both the President and the state government, and my party – APC- the only party in Nigeria.”
Adegbonmire further explained that the empowerment programme cut across widows, artisans, market women, and business owners, noting that close to 1,000 constituents would benefit from the gesture.
“We are empowering about 200 widows, artisans, and market women with cash. Ultimately, cash beneficiaries are about 200 people, while items go to about 650 beneficiaries – approximately 850 to 900 people.
“As you all know, I have spent about two and a half years in the Senate. In 2023, we couldn’t do much because of the budget cycle, so effectively, this is the first full year of representation.
“I thought it was important to show gratitude to my constituents by helping them to fish rather than giving them fish. All these items can be used to generate income,” he said.
Earlier, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa commended Senator Adegbonmire for his laudable initiative of giving back to the people who entrusted him with their mandate to represent them at the National Assembly.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Legislative Matters, Babatunde Kolawole, the Ondo governor said the present administration believes that, in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, good governance must touch lives in meaningful ways.
Aiyedatiwa noted that programmes that create livelihood opportunities, enhance self-reliance, and prepare citizens for competitiveness align with this vision, adding that the initiative underscores a shared resolve to build a society where progress is inclusive.
On his part, the Chairman of APC in the state, Engr Ade Adetimehin, said that the senator had distinguished himself beyond the traditional roles expected of a federal lawmaker.
Adetimehin stressed that although legislators do not control federal funds, Adegbonmire has demonstrated rare commitment to delivering tangible benefits to his constituents.
“It is evident that the senator has done amazingly well. The duty of a legislator is to make laws and provide oversight, but Senator Adegbonmire has gone far beyond that. Today, we have a Federal Teaching Hospital because of his efforts,” the APC chairman said.
Adetimehin added that the senator’s commitment was inspired by the legacy of his father, the late High Chief Wunmi Adegbonmire, whom he described as a mentor and role model.
He noted that the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, had on multiple occasions praised Adegbonmire’s intellect and legislative competence.
Also, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, applauded the senator, saying he had shown uncommon commitment to service.
“If he wants to do something, he will make sure he does it right. This is not just empowerment; it is mega empowerment. The items on display show that this is real and impactful,” the monarch said.
