Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has launched an empowerment initiative, distributing N100,000 Livelihood Support Grants to 8,000 women and youths across the state’s 21 Local Government Areas.
This significant milestone, flagged off at the Government House in Lokoja, aims to promote equitable and prosperous livelihoods.
The program, done in collaboration with the World Bank under the Kogi State Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus, provides financial cushioning to vulnerable individuals and households through the state’s Grant Transfer Delivery platform.
Governor Ododo, represented by Deputy Governor Joel Oyibo, emphasized the importance of this initiative in supporting existing and new businesses, fostering economic growth and resilience.
“This transfer cannot be equated by the amount, but by the various value possibilities that it would add to the beneficiaries, enabling them to meet their basic needs, invest in their education, and health and participate more fully in the economic vibrancy of the state.
“I believe the programme will have a transformative impact in our communities, increase school enrolment, health condition, reduce child labour, empower women, small scale business and pressing family needs.
“I urge all the beneficiaries to take full advantage of the opportunity and consider it as a critical step towards enhancing the dignity of life and that of their loved ones as they put the support to good use.
“I also appeal to all the stakeholders in the state and the general public to work together with this government to make Kogi a state where everyone has the opportunity to strive as we build a future where poverty is a thing of the past, and all indigenes can live with dignity and hope,” he stated.
Mrs. Aishat Omade, CEO of the Kogi State Social Investment Program Agency, highlighted her key achievement as ensuring inclusivity across all 21 Local Government Areas of the state. She emphasized that every citizen, regardless of their location, has benefited from the empowerment program.
Mr. Kehinde Olorunmosunle, Head of the State Cash Transfer Unit, added that this initiative lays the groundwork for a brighter future.
