AbdulRazaq supports 100 youths with N100m grant to mark International Youth Day

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Kwara

Kwara State government has given businesses owned by 100 young people in the state with N1m grant each, with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq saying youth inclusion and productive engagement are key to sustainable future.

The N1m grant is funded through Kwapreneur 2.0, a programme specifically designed to support businesses owned by young people and funded through the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP).

Last year, the scheme gave at least 170 young people an interest-free loan ranging from N250,000 to N3million. Friday’s programme featured a video testimonial of successful beneficiaries of the loan.

 Speaking at an event commemorating the International Youths Day in Ilorin, the state capital, 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% 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. 

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. 

Debating the theme of the event, panelists took turns to commend the government for supporting businesses owned by young people, urging the beneficiaries to make good use of the funds, and to remain committed to their dreams.