The Ogun State Government has launched the second phase of its N1 billion operational grant for micro and small-scale enterprises under the OG-Cares scheme. This initiative, which began in 2023, initially provided grants to 1,000 micro-entrepreneurs and small-scale businesses, with recipients receiving N100,000 and N350,000 respectively. The current phase aims to support 2,822 additional entrepreneurs.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by his deputy Noimot Salako-Oyedele at the Obas’ Complex in Abeokuta, highlighted the scheme as a pivotal part of the “Building Our Future Together” agenda. This agenda underscores the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth through support for Medium, Small, and Micro Scale Enterprises (MSMEs).
Abiodun emphasized that the selection of grant beneficiaries was conducted through a strategic and inclusive process involving various societal stakeholders. These include local government chairpersons, market associations, community development councils, the organized private sector, the National Youth Council, and associations representing people with disabilities.
Governor Abiodun expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for initiating the scheme and assured that the disbursement would continue beyond the initially planned end date of June 2024. He urged beneficiaries to use the grants wisely to contribute to the state’s economic growth.
State House of Assembly Speaker Oludaisi Elemide and the Chairman of the OG-Cares Steering Committee, Commissioner for Finance Dapo Okubadejo, also spoke at the event. They reinforced the importance of using the grants responsibly and highlighted the scheme’s role in mitigating the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
ALGON Chairman and Ijebu Ode Local Government Chairman, Emilola Gazal, thanked the state government for its support of grassroots development. He noted the timeliness of the grants given the current economic hardships faced by many.
Leaders from various business associations praised Governor Abiodun’s efforts in empowering small business owners and transforming many grant recipients into employers. The OG-Cares scheme continues to play a crucial role in promoting entrepreneurship and driving inclusive economic growth in Ogun State.
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