From Layi Olanrewaju, Ilorin

Kwara State government, yesterday, commenced distribution of N600 million grant to over 30,000 women and petty traders across the 16 local government areas.

The support coordinated under Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) and is a replica of World Bank programme, Nigeria for Women Project.

Acting General Manager for KWASSIP,  Abdulqowiyu Olododo told journalists at the disbursement centres at Alanamu, Ilorin West Local Government, that each of the beneficiaries received N20,000 to support their trades.

The disbursement started at Asa, Ilorin West and Ilorin South, while other LGAs are scheduled for the coming days.

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Olododo dismissed speculations that the selection process was political, saying the list was a product of consultations with relevant stakeholders, including trade groups in the affected locations.

“There is nothing like political patronage about the exercise. This administration is known to spread dividends of democracy to all parts of the state and to all persons at various times. We worked with different community people, trade bodies, and other stakeholders across the state who helped us to identify the genuine petty traders.”

TIC Chairman for Asa, Abduganiy Atebise said the concept is people-focused and one that would go a long way in reviving several businesses and hailed the gesture of the state government.

Some of the beneficiaries, who spoke to newsmen, expressed their joy for the financial support and applauded the process leading to their pick.

Mrs. Kabira Nasirdeen, foodstuffs vendor, said the money would strengthen her business, while Mrs. Ishola Memuna, gar seller, lauded  AbdulRazaq for coming to their rescue through the empowerment.