In his continued effort to create opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs, Representative Bamidele Salam, in collaboration with the Advertising regulatory council of Nigeria on Wednesday disbursed over N100 million grants and equipments to market women and artisans across Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore, and Ejigbo Federal Constituency of Osun State.
The disbursement, took place during the Annual General Meeting of the Ajọje Microcredit Scheme in Awo, Egbedore Local Government.
Market women and Iyalojas from the four local government areas received ₦2 million each in direct cash grants.
Also, empowerment items such as sewing machines, deep freezers, grinding machines and others were distributed to further support their business efforts.
Speaking to the media during the Empowerment programme, Rep. Bamidele Salam said that the project began with skepticism.
According to him, “Many believed people would not repay the loans, especially with no interest charged.
“But today, we have over 70 percent repayment compliance, proving that women are reliable, resourceful, and committed to economic growth,” Rep. Salam said.
Rep. Salam, however reiterated his commitment to sustaining and expanding the Ajoje scheme as a long-term tool for economic inclusion and poverty alleviation.
“This is not just a celebration. It’s a continuation of the vision to empower our women, build resilient communities, and promote self-reliance. More is still coming”, he assured.
Also speaking at the Programme, Senior Legislative Aide to Rep. Salam, Akintayo Jimoh emphasised that the items are not just gifts, they are rewards for diligence, honesty, and commitment to building better lives for the women and their families.
Jimoh continued by adding that an additional ₦10 million would be injected into the Ajoje scheme between now and December 2025.
Alhaja Bola Olayiwola, the coordinator for Ejigbo Local Government and overall constituency coordinator of the Ajoje scheme, commended Rep. Salam for fulfilling his promises.
“This is not a PDP programme, we have both APC, PDP and other political parties women benefitting here.
“Rep. Salam listened to us, started with ₦1.5 million, expanded it to ₦5 million, and now we’re talking about ₦100 million in total impact. This is leadership,” she said.
She also challenged other politicians to emulate Rep. Salam’s inclusive and effective approach to grassroots development.
