Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has authorized the release of N500 million in soft loans to support traders and artisans throughout the state. This announcement was made during the 2024 Community Day/World Trade Day celebration held at the M.K.O Abiola Stadium in Kuto, Abeokuta.
Governor Abiodun, who also provided an 18-seater bus to the State Community Development Council, emphasized the crucial role that artisans and trade unions play in driving sustainable economic growth. He remarked, “Any government that underestimates the role of artisans and trade unions does so at its own peril.”
The governor acknowledged the significant contributions of community and trade union associations in establishing Ogun State as the industrial hub of Nigeria. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering economic growth through Community Development Associations (CDAs).
Additionally, the Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperatives, Ademola Balogun, announced that grants-in-aid and other forms of support would be provided to viable self-help projects across the state. Subventions or administrative grants will also be allocated to 437 Area Community Development Councils (ACDCs).
Balogun highlighted the importance of Community Development Organizations as key drivers of grassroots development, while trade associations were described as vital to achieving rapid economic growth in the country.
Oba Steven Adekoya, Beje Roku of Oke-Agbo, Ijebu-Igbo, and other award recipients expressed their gratitude to the government for the recognition, viewing it as a call to further contribute to community development and sustainable growth in Ogun State.
