By Lawani Mikairu

Small-scale traders and service providers at Tarzan Jetty, Badore, Lagos, have begun receiving financial support under an empowerment initiative launched by Chief Executive Officer of Tarzan Maritime Enterprises and President of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria ,ATBOWATON, Chief Ganiyu Shekoni Balogun.
Chief Balogun, aka De Boatman “Tarzan,” told journalists in an interview in Lagos that the initiative is part of activities marking his birthday scheduled for April 30.
He said the programme, which has already started at Tarzan Jetty in Badore, is designed to provide direct financial assistance to small-scale traders and service providers operating within communities where his businesses are located.
According to him, the decision to empower residents instead of organising a lavish birthday celebration was influenced by his observation of the economic challenges faced by small business operators within his immediate environment.
“If I organise a big party and spend money on food and drinks, the people who will attend can afford those things on their own,” Balogun said.
“So I decided to support people in the lower-income group who are doing business around where I operate. Instead of having a big party, I want to make an impact on the people around me.”
He explained that his business operations cover areas such as Badore and other parts of Lagos, including aquatic tourism and water transportation services.
He described himself as a marine engineer actively involved in boat operations and water transport services, adding that his work over the years has brought him into close contact with different categories of people.
“I have been around people — the rich, the poor and the middle class — and I understand that small support can make a difference,” he said.
He further disclosed that the beneficiaries were carefully selected through a community-based process to ensure that the support reaches those genuinely in need.
“I worked with trusted people in the community to help gather names and phone numbers. When I contacted them, I interviewed them to know where they live and what they do, so that the support goes to the right people living in this community,” he explained.
Balogun added that for the Badore phase alone, he received a list of 55 beneficiaries.
“For this community alone, I received a list of 55 people. Some may not have phones, but I know where many of them work, so I can meet them directly,” he said.
The empowerment programme is expected to continue within other Lagos communities in subsequent phases before concluding in Abeokuta, Ogun State, his hometown.
Among those who benefited from the initiative is Deborah, a small-scale trader operating within the Badore axis.
She confirmed receiving ₦50,000 and expressed appreciation for the support, noting that the financial assistance would help her sustain her business operations.
Deborah also prayed that God would continue to bless Balogun for extending support to people within the community.
Another beneficiary, Pa Arowolo Isaac, described the initiative as a positive development for residents of the area.
“My name is Pa Arowolo Isaac. I am one of the landlords in this community,” he said.
Isaac, who identified himself as a peacemaker within the community, said he was pleased to be selected as one of the beneficiaries.
“I am happy that I was recognised and selected to be part of this empowerment,” he said.
He disclosed that the financial support would be directed toward supporting his wife’s catering business.
“I will give the money to my wife. She is a caterer, and this will help to boost her business,” Isaac added.
Speaking further, Isaac offered birthday wishes to Balogun, praying for long life and continued success in his business activities.
“I wish him many more years — 70, 80, 90 and even 120 years — and continued progress in his business,” he said.
He also advised other beneficiaries to make good use of the financial assistance provided to them.
“They should use the support well and continue to appreciate those who help them,” he added.
Balogun reiterated that the objective of the programme is not to provide complete funding for businesses but to give support that can help traders take the next step toward growth.
“Even if I cannot give the full amount they need, whatever I give will help them move forward and improve their businesses,” he said.
He added that the empowerment programme will remain ongoing at Tarzan Jetty in Badore before extending to other communities within Lagos.