The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting residents through expanded social investment initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods across the state. This assurance was given by the General Manager of the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP), Dr Abdulwasiu Olayinka Tejidini, during an Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing organised by the Ministry of Communications and held at the Ministry of Finance conference room in Ilorin.
Dr Tejidini explained that KWASSIP is poised to broaden its coverage by offering financial assistance to a greater number of households and communities across all sixteen Local Government Areas of the state. He emphasised that social investment schemes are a vital component of any progressive government, serving as effective tools for reducing poverty and addressing inequality not only in Kwara but across Nigeria.
He further stated that such programmes aim to provide equitable opportunities for economically disadvantaged individuals by offering targeted palliatives that enhance their purchasing power and economic resilience. Highlighting some achievements, Dr Tejidini noted that the initiative had already reached 20,000 individuals engaged in both skilled and unskilled labour, each receiving ₦20,000 to support their productivity and income stability.
Additionally, petty traders from various communities within the LGAs have also benefited from the same ₦20,000 intervention, designed to encourage grassroots commerce and promote local economies. He also shed light on the Household Support Programme introduced earlier in the year, which provides financial aid to low-income families. According to Dr Tejidini, 7,000 households are currently enrolled in the scheme, each set to receive ₦100,000 to help them meet essential needs and achieve greater financial independence.