Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State has initiated the disbursement of N100,000 each to 8,000 youths and women across the state’s 21 local government areas, as part of a Livelihood Support Grant aimed at supporting new and existing businesses. The governor, represented by his Deputy, launched the grant distribution in Lokoja on Thursday, marking a significant step toward enhancing the economic well-being of the beneficiaries.
This empowerment initiative, conducted in collaboration with the World Bank under the *Kogi State Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus*, aims to provide financial relief to vulnerable individuals and households. Governor Ododo emphasized the transformative potential of the grant, encouraging beneficiaries to invest in essential needs such as education, health, and economic activities that would uplift their lives and those of their families.
The governor urged beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity, stressing that it was a critical step toward enhancing the dignity of life in Kogi State. He also appealed to stakeholders and the public to collaborate with the administration to make Kogi a state where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, and where poverty is reduced.
Aisha Omade, the State Coordinator/CEO of the Kogi State Social Investment Programme Agency, underscored the importance of inclusivity in the grant program, ensuring that citizens from all 21 LGAs were included. Kehinde Olorunmosunle, Head of the State Cash Transfer Unit, highlighted the program’s role in providing youths and women with the tools they need to build a more promising future.
Beneficiaries like Mosunmola Ahinde and Caleb Ojochegbe expressed their gratitude, noting that the grants would significantly improve their businesses and economic fortunes, providing much-needed financial relief.
