Date: 2016-12-28

In a symbolic presentation of N20million cheques to beneficiaries in Ilorin, the state capital on Tuesday, Gov Ahmed reiterated that his administration has prioritized the informal sector as a major driver and a source of living for majority of people.

While speaking of his administration's efforts to enhance the livelihood of women, the Governor said the remaining N21m balance would be released soon to qualified women.

"It is designed to assist women who are the powerful majority of the electorate and are in dire need of financial assistance to do their businesses," he said.

The governor also said that the approach of his administration was to strengthen the informal sector, which is: the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) under which micro-credit funds are disbursed via micro finance banks to qualifying cooperative groups.

He said the first set of beneficiaries are drawn from the three senatorial districts of the state saying the decision to prioritize women was born out of the role they played in shaping the society politically, socially and economically.

"In view of this, this government has put in place various programmes to educate, and empower women and young girls with the tools, resources and skills necessary to build productive lives for the benefit of the society," he stated.

Governor Ahmed however, expressed optimism for the repayment as he noted that the scheme has recorded a 75 per cent repayment rate stating that women have greater incentive to utilize the funds prudently and repay on schedule.