What began as a birthday celebration has translated into real impact for residents of Arigidi-Akoko in Akoko North West Local Government Area of Ondo State, as over 1,500 benefitted from a wide-reaching empowerment programme held in honour of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Organised by the Bunmi Tunji-Ojo Movement (BTOM), the initiative forms part of activities marking the minister’s 44th birthday on May 1.

Rather than a routine celebration, the event doubled as a platform to reflect on his public service journey and his contributions under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The town came alive with excitement as residents gathered in large numbers, creating an atmosphere filled with appreciation and political solidarity.

Community leaders, party stakeholders, and beneficiaries from across the local government area were all present, reinforcing the programme’s grassroots appeal.

According to the organisers, the outreach was designed not only to celebrate Tunji-Ojo but also to directly support the people through practical interventions.

The Director-General of BTOM, Stephen Agbi, described the programme as a reflection of Tunji-Ojo’s enduring commitment to empowering people and investing in human capital.

Also speaking, the Akoko North West Local Government Party Chairman, Kehinde Obanla, praised the minister’s performance, noting that his leadership style has continued to build trust and confidence among grassroots supporters.

Desmond Fowobi of the movement’s communications team pointed to the initiative as evidence of the minister’s accessibility and consistent engagement with his constituents, while the Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Atinuke Akadri, emphasized the importance of sustaining such efforts, particularly for women and vulnerable groups.

At the heart of the event was the distribution of cash support and food items to beneficiaries—an intervention many described as timely, given current economic realities.

The moment was marked by visible gratitude and excitement among recipients.

As the countdown to his 44th birthday continues, residents say the empowerment programme speaks volumes about Tunji-Ojo’s approach to leadership—one that blends celebration with service, and politics with tangible community impact.