The Jigawa State Government has recently initiated the distribution of a substantial ₦250 million grant aimed at supporting over 4,349 youth and women who own small-scale businesses.
Additionally, a social intervention grant is being provided to 1,000 individuals with disabilities.
At the grant and intervention distribution ceremony, Governor Malam Umar Namadi Sa’id emphasized his administration’s dedication to leveraging every available opportunity and resource to empower the people of Jigawa and alleviate poverty.
Governor Sa’id outlined the collaborative efforts between the state government and national as well as international agencies, companies, and civil societies in the ongoing fight against poverty.
The primary goals include fostering job creation, encouraging self-reliance, and establishing sustainable economic development within the state.
As part of the government’s 12-point agenda, the governor highlighted the operation of six skill acquisition centers in the state, where individuals are being trained in jobs of their choice.
Moreover, special grants are being provided to empower individuals in pursuing their chosen occupations, ultimately enhancing productivity and fostering wealth creation.
Governor Sa’id also underscored the support and intervention programs aimed at the elderly and people with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of social security and economic inclusion in the broader vision of making Jigawa a thriving and happier society for all residents.
Reaffirming his commitment to fulfilling the promises outlined in the 12-point agenda, Governor Sa’id assured the people of Jigawa of his dedication to the development and well-being of the state.
Dr. Habu Ubale, the Executive Secretary of Jigawa State Directorate For Economic Empowerment, elucidated further during the event.
He detailed that each of the 4,349 youth and women entrepreneurs would receive a grant of ₦50,000, while a social intervention grant of ₦30,000 would be provided to 1,000 people with disabilities.
Dr. Ubale emphasized the transparent selection process, noting that beneficiaries were chosen from the state Social Register website, which is open and accessible to everyone in the state.
In an effort to ensure equal opportunities, youth from every political ward were actively involved as facilitators, aiding individuals in registering on the website for seamless identification and inclusion in employment, empowerment, training, and various economic interventions.
Under the comprehensive COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus Program (J-CARES), Dr. Ubale disclosed the ambitious target of reaching over 28,974 people with diverse empowerment packages by the conclusion of the year 2024, fostering overall growth and development in Jigawa.
