Ogun government provides loans to support artisans
Ogun government provides loans to support artisans
The Ogun State Government has approved the disbursement of low-interest soft loans to artisans across the state, as part of efforts to empower grassroots entrepreneurs and boost local economic development.
This was revealed by the Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperatives, Ademola Balogun, during the closing ceremony of a four-day Citizenship and Leadership Advanced Training Course held for community leaders from all 20 local government areas in the state.
Speaking at the event, Balogun stated, “This loan initiative reflects Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to empowering citizens at the grassroots. Our goal is to provide artisans with the financial support they need to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods.”
The training also focused on enhancing the leadership skills of community leaders, covering areas such as strategies to combat banditry, kidnapping, flood control, and drug abuse. Hon. Balogun expressed optimism that the knowledge gained would enable participants to make meaningful contributions to their communities.
He further added, “This training is not just about acquiring new knowledge; it is a call to action, a call to lead with vision, integrity, and compassion. Community leaders are the heartbeat of development and the vital link between government and the grassroots.”
Highlighting the state government’s recognition of community leadership, Hon. Balogun noted the appointment of four community representatives to the Amotekun Corps Board and announced plans to upgrade the Social Development Institute in Shasha for more effective training programmes.
A total of 687 community leaders participated in the course, representing all Local Government Areas of Ogun State. Participants praised the training for broadening their understanding of conflict resolution and community development.
One of the participants, Kolawole Idowu, remarked, “The training has introduced us to new methods of conflict management and promoting peaceful coexistence. We are committed to sharing this knowledge within our communities.”
The programme also featured a range of activities, including road walks, football matches, campfires, and cultural dances—all designed to build unity and strengthen bonds among participants.
Governor Abiodun’s empowerment initiative, which combines soft loan disbursement and leadership training, reflects his administration’s commitment to grassroots development and improving the quality of life for residents of Ogun State.
As part of broader development efforts under the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project—supported by the World Bank—the state government has empowered over 40,000 farmers, equipped 236 senior secondary schools with smart classrooms, and renovated all eight technical colleges across the state.
