Gov. AbdulRazaq Empowers 100 Youth With 1 Million Grants

The Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has taken a good step towards empowering the youth. The Kwara State Government has provided N1 million in grants to foster youth inclusion and productive engagement to 100 young entrepreneurs.

Each recipient will receive this financial boost to support their businesses and enhance self-reliance.

During the International Youth Day (IYD) celebration in Ilorin on Friday, AbdulRazaq distributed cheques to the recipients, emphasizing the importance of involving youth in productive activities for a sustainable future.

The governor explained that the N1 million grant is part of Kwapreneur 2.0, an initiative to nurture youth-owned enterprises financed by the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP).

The previous year, the program offered interest-free loans ranging from N250,000 to N3 million to at least 170 young individuals.

AbdulRazaq highlighted the necessity of harnessing the potential of the country’s burgeoning youth population for development and prosperity while also acknowledging the risks to stability and security if not properly addressed.

He stressed the need for ongoing dialogue about youth empowerment and quality engagement, aligning with the event’s theme of fostering a world inclusive of all ages.

AbdulQuawiy Olododo, head of KWASSIP, mentioned that the current beneficiaries were selected from previous Kwapreneur applicants and various community and youth organizations nominations.

Mrs. Kaosara Adeyi, Special Assistant on Youth Engagement, thanked the governor for the grants intended to empower the youth and bolster their businesses.

She encouraged collective support to realize the vision of a prosperous Nigeria.

Mr. Dayo Israel, National APC Youth Leader, praised the Kwara governance model as a sign of hope for the nation’s future.

Panelists at the event lauded the government’s efforts in backing youth-led businesses, with Afolabi Oshatimehin, Commissioner for Solid Minerals, acknowledging the program’s role in helping youth recognize their worth and potential.

Community Development Practitioner Mr Lawal Olohungbebe and Mr Jerry Kolo, Chairman of the Kwara North Development Council, spoke on the administration’s initiatives that have fostered a favourable investment climate and independence among the youth.

Mr. Ali Nasim-Yusuf, Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Kwara branch, supported AbdulRazaq’s re-election bid, citing his notable contributions to the state.

Ms Afusat Adewale, speaking for the beneficiaries, thanked the governor for the opportunity to become self-reliant and assured him that the funds would be used wisely.

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