Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sponsored the rehabilitation and reintegration of over 100 streets children in Lagos.
In a press statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Gboyega Akosile, the governor single-handedly sponsored the “Eko Inspire Me” which was initiated by female talking drum artiste, Aralola Olumuyiwa, popularly known as Ara.
“The urchins are being rehabilitated, trained in vocation and empowered to be responsible citizens. Sanwo-Olu hosted 120 of the rescued vagrants at the State House in Alausa, where the governor reassured them of his commitment to their full rehabilitation and reintegration back to the society,” the statement added.
He claimed that the project had given the victims a chance to start over and help themselves. Sanwo-Olu claimed that the government had placed equal emphasis on rehabilitating victims and transforming their lives as it had on addressing the problems that contribute to social exclusion.
He said: “The Eko Inspire Me project being championed by Ara has been making our work a lot easier. This is the effort of someone which God has led to change many people’s stories to positive ones.
“The minimum we can do as a government is to lend our support and make life better for the victims. Through this initiative, we have connected with a community of homeless individuals aimlessly roaming the streets.
“Lagos has inspired so many people and elevate to great positions them from their humble beginning on the streets. As victims of social isolation, your stories must not be different. Ara is using her voice and wisdom through this initiative to help you and turn your situation around for good.
“The least that is required of you is to must show your commitment to this effort, which is targeted at changing your situation.”
Sanwo-Olu urged the street kids who had been saved not to give up on their hopes and dreams and to use the opportunity to discover their talents.
The governor thanked the artist for establishing the platform for the rehabilitation of street children, promising to provide additional support for the effort and to use it as a positive example to promote social change.
Sanwo-Olu also approved provision of working tools and equipment for 100 of the street children trained in various vocations.
