The Ogun State Government has approved the disbursement of low-interest soft loans to artisans across the state, aiming to empower grassroots entrepreneurs and stimulate local economic growth.

In a statement made available to our correspondent on Tuesday, the initiative was disclosed by the Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperatives, Ademola Balogun, during the closing ceremony of a four-day Citizenship and Leadership Advanced Training Course organised for community leaders from all 20 Local Government Areas of the state.

Speaking at the event, Balogun said, “The disbursement of these loans is part of Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to empower our citizens at the grassroots level.

We want to equip artisans with the necessary financial support to improve their businesses and livelihoods.”

The training course also focused on equipping community leaders with leadership skills, including strategies to combat banditry, kidnapping, flood prevention, and drug abuse. Hon. Balogun expressed confidence that the knowledge gained would enable leaders to drive positive change within 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.

Additionally, one of the participants, Kolawole Idowu, said, “The training has exposed us to new ways of managing conflicts and promoting peaceful coexistence. We are committed to passing this knowledge on to our communities.”

The training also included various activities such as road walks, football competitions, campfires, and cultural dances aimed at fostering unity and camaraderie among participants.

Governor Abiodun’s empowerment programme through soft loans and leadership training underscores the administration’s dedication to grassroots development and improving the welfare of Ogun State residents.

The PUNCH reported that the Ogun State Government has empowered over 40,000 farmers, provided 236 senior secondary schools with smart classrooms, and renovated all eight technical colleges across the state under the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project, sponsored by the World Bank.