The Deputy Chief Whip of the Edo State House of Assembly and member representing Oredo West, Dr. Richard Edosa has boosted grassroots enterprise in Oredo West by empowering 60 small business owners with grinding machines and generators, in a scheme aimed at easing the rising cost of operations for local entrepreneurs.
The initiative, which held earlier in the year, was designed to help traders and small-scale operators overcome persistent challenges such as erratic power supply and financial strain. The lawmaker said the intervention was part of his commitment to strengthening economic activity at the community level.
“By providing these essential items, my goal was to strengthen their businesses, reduce barriers, and open new opportunities for growth,” he said.
The event drew traders, community leaders, and residents, and underscored the legislator’s promise to build a constituency where enterprise can thrive. Organisers described the programme as an opportunity for hardworking entrepreneurs to acquire tools that directly improve productivity.
They said 60 winners were selected through a raffle draw conducted to ensure transparency, with additional consolation prizes for participants who did not secure major items.
Community representatives praised the lawmaker’s dedication to the constituency, noting that the empowerment scheme demonstrated a practical commitment to economic upliftment.
“He is a dedicated representative of Oredo West. The process was open and free, and this will help small businesses grow and bring revenue to the community,” one of the organisers said.
Several beneficiaries and winners of the raffle draw expressed gratitude, saying the machines and generators would significantly enhance their daily operations. Many pledged to put the items to good use as they work to expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
The empowerment drive adds to the growing push for grassroots economic support in Edo State, highlighting the role of elected officials in cushioning small businesses at a time of rising costs and limited infrastructure.
