More than 300 small-scale business owners, craftsmen, and skilled workers in Kwara Central have received financial support through an empowerment programme designed to strengthen local enterprises and expand economic opportunities in the state.
The initiative, unveiled in Ilorin on Tuesday, was implemented in partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN). Beneficiaries received grants ranging from ₦100,000 to ₦500,000, aimed at helping them scale their businesses, create jobs, and reduce reliance on external support.
Organisers of the programme explained that the intervention was conceived as a tool to promote self-reliance among small-scale entrepreneurs. By directing funds into the hands of those already engaged in productive activities, the programme seeks to build stronger foundations for job creation and inclusive growth across the senatorial district.
Observers at the event described the scheme as a landmark initiative in empowering local entrepreneurs. They emphasised that craftsmen and small business operators remain a vital part of Nigeria’s economy, yet they continue to face challenges such as inadequate access to finance, limited training opportunities, and outdated tools. The financial backing, they noted, is not just about providing cash but about instilling confidence in the ability of small-scale businesses to thrive.
In addition to the financial support, SMEDAN representatives noted that the programme would be complemented with mentorship, training, and capacity-building resources to ensure that beneficiaries maximise the grants received. This, they added, would help address deeper structural issues that often limit the growth of small businesses in Nigeria.
Beneficiaries drawn from different parts of Kwara Central expressed appreciation for the support, noting that the grants would enable them to purchase new tools, increase their production capacity, and improve their livelihoods. For many, the assistance marks a turning point that could transform small-scale operations into sustainable enterprises capable of employing more people and contributing to the local economy.
The empowerment initiative highlights the growing recognition of small-scale businesses as engines of development. With the right mix of financial backing, skills development, and mentorship, programmes of this nature are seen as critical steps toward creating self-reliant communities and building a more resilient economy.
