By Ajibola Olaide, JKNewsMedia Reporter
OGUN STATE Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced the launch of grants ranging from N500,000 to N10 million for business-oriented youths in the state.
These grants, part of the Ogun Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurial Programme (OGYES), will provide crucial financial support to young entrepreneurs and women to expand their businesses.
The initiative is set to roll out in the next phase of OGYES, which will be relaunched soon.
Governor Abiodun shared these details during the Remo International Youth Day event held at Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Iperu-Remo.
He emphasized that the programme would identify and support young entrepreneurs with grants and offer others access to interest-free digital loans.
The governor also highlighted plans to train more youths in digital enterprises and vocational skills.
The OGYES initiative is designed to empower Ogun State’s youth by offering opportunities in various sectors.
The grants, ranging from N500,000 to N10 million, aim to provide the necessary capital for business expansion and cash flow.
Additionally, the programme will offer digital loans to support other aspiring entrepreneurs.
Governor Abiodun revealed that the state would also focus on training youths in digital skills and vocational trades.
These training programmes aim to equip participants with skills in construction, painting, welding, and other essential trades, ensuring they can contribute effectively to the state’s development.
Further, the governor announced the introduction of the Ogun Youth Agricultural Programme, which will replicate the Soilless Farm Lab currently operating in Awowo, Ewekoro Local Government Area.
The program will start in Remoland and train 8,000 youths annually in soilless farming technology, turning them into agripreneurs.
The state government, in collaboration with Soilless Farm Lab, will provide land and support for these young farmers, ensuring the success of their ventures.
Governor Abiodun also highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts in agriculture, noting that the rice planted three months ago is ready for harvest, with the potential to be planted four times a year.
He stressed the importance of youth involvement in agriculture to achieve food security and sustainable development in Ogun State.
The Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, represented by Oba Sikiru Adeyiga, urged the youth to work hard and avoid laziness.
He also called on the state government to provide tractors to assist young farmers.
Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, praised the summit for its impact on the lives of Remoland youth and highlighted the importance of dialogue and data collection for effective policymaking.
Comrade Bidemi Solarin, Chairman of the Remo Youth Association, commended Governor Abiodun for establishing a dedicated ministry for youth development and urged all levels of government to create more opportunities for youth engagement in agriculture.
