The Ogun State Government has approved the distribution of low-interest soft loans to artisans as part of its efforts to boost grassroots entrepreneurship and stimulate local economic activity.
This initiative was revealed by the Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperatives, Ademola Balogun, at the conclusion of a four-day Citizenship and Leadership Advanced Training Course held for community leaders from all 20 Local Government Areas in the state.
Balogun noted that the loan programme aligns with Governor Dapo Abiodun's commitment to uplifting small-scale business owners by providing them with financial tools to expand their livelihoods.
The training also focused on developing leadership capabilities among participants, equipping them with strategies to address challenges such as insecurity, natural disasters, and drug abuse. Balogun urged the leaders to use their new skills to inspire development and unity at the community level.
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Emphasizing the importance of strong grassroots leadership, he announced that four community representatives had been appointed to the Amotekun Corps Board and that plans were underway to upgrade the Social Development Institute in Shasha for more robust training programmes.
A total of 687 community leaders participated in the course, which featured team-building activities like football matches, cultural performances, road walks, and campfires. Participants expressed appreciation for the training, citing improved knowledge in conflict resolution and leadership.
One attendee, Kolawole Idowu, shared, "The training has taught us practical methods for fostering peace and understanding within our communities, and we are ready to implement what we've learned."
The empowerment initiative, which combines financial support with leadership development, reflects the Ogun State Government's broader commitment to socioeconomic transformation. Under the World Bank-supported Ogun State Economic Transformation Project, the state has previously empowered over 40,000 farmers, introduced smart classrooms in 236 secondary schools, and renovated eight technical colleges.
