IYD: Kwara Government Supports 100 Youths With N1Million Each

The Kwara State Government has supported businesses owned by 100 young people in the state with N1million grant each, saying youth inclusion and productive engagement are key to sustainable future.

The state governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Friday speaking at an event to commemorate the International Youth Day said the grant is funded through Kwapreneur 2.0, a programme specifically designed to support businesses owned by young people in the state.

AbdulRazaq noted that the programme is funded through the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP).

According to the governor, last year the scheme gave at least 170 young people an interest-free loan ranging from N250,000 to N3 million.

AbdulRazaq said nowhere in the world is the conversation around the future of young people more important and urgent than in sub-Saharan Africa where up to 70 per cent of the population are below the age of 30.
 
The Governor said the country must seize every opportunity to engage its growing young population. 
 
“This is an opportunity for growth and prosperity.

"But it could also be a threat to stability, peace, and security on the continent if not managed.

"This is why we must not lose the conversation around inclusion, growth, quality engagement and empowerment of young people.

"For this reason, I align myself with the theme of this gathering, which is 'Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating A World for All Ages', he said.
 
“Today’s launch of Kwapreneur 2.0 is another example.

"No fewer than 100 young people will get a grant of One Million Naira each to support their businesses.

"Not only will this keep them away from violent crimes and protect them from predatory politics, it is another way of strengthening small and medium scale businesses with multiplying effects on the local economy and living standards of the people. 
 
KWASSIP’s chief AbdulQuawiy Olododo said beneficiaries were drawn from a pool of those who had applied for Kwapreneur 1.0 and nominations from artisan groups, community organisations, and youth groups, among others.