Ogun Begins Distribution of N500m Loan To Artisans

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has instituted a N500m soft loan scheme for artisans and traders across the state.

The governor, who announced this at the 2023 International Community Day and World Trade Day celebration held at the M.K.O. Abiola Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta, said the soft loan, which would be tagged “Oko’wo Irinse Dapo,” would be given to traders and artisans within 30 days after modalities had been worked out.

Abiodun acknowledged the contributions of traders and artisans to the economic development of the state, adding that his administration would not neglect them, as they had been worthy partners in realizing the ‘Building Our Future Together’ agenda

He said: “In fulfilment of the promise I made in the year 2022, which was to provide N500 million in soft loans for the artisans that we call Okowo Irinse Dapo, I have instructed the Commissioners for Finance, Trade and Investment, as well as Community Development and Cooperative, to work out the modalities for disbursement of this loan.

“The N500 million is available for disbursement. However, we need to work out the details of how this disbursement will be made, and I have given them one month to ensure that our artisans and trade unions begin to benefit from this disbursement.”

The governor also announced the disbursement of grants and subventions to community development associations and area, zonal, and senatorial development committees across the state.

“Today, over 200 Community Development Associations will receive grants ranging from N200,000 to N5 million.

“Additionally, subventions and administrative grants will be allocated to 437 Area Development Committees, as well as 20 Zonal Development Committees and three Senatorial Community Development Committees, namely the Ogun State Community Development Council and the Ogun State Trade Council,” the governor added.