The Kogi State Government has officially launched the Kogi Youth Entrepreneurship and Business Grant Programme, reaffirming its commitment to empowering young people to become entrepreneurs, create jobs and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economic development.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented at the event in Lokoja by the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State (SGS), Mrs. Folashade Ayoade, said the initiative underscored his administration’s determination to invest in the productive capacity of young people across the state.
Ayoade urged beneficiaries to use the grants responsibly and see the intervention as an opportunity to establish sustainable businesses rather than simply as financial assistance.
She charged the beneficiaries to demonstrate commitment and accountability in managing the resources provided.
The SGS also encouraged the young entrepreneurs not to be discouraged by the current size of their businesses or their circumstances, noting that many successful enterprises started on a small scale.
She stressed that the point at which beneficiaries begin their entrepreneurial journey should not determine how far they go, urging them to remain passionate, focused and determined in pursuing their goals.
Ayoade further directed the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development to establish effective monitoring and follow-up mechanisms to track the progress of beneficiaries, stressing that government’s responsibility should extend beyond the distribution of grants.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Monday Aridojo Anyebe, described the programme as more than a grant scheme, saying it represented an investment in the human capital and economic future of Kogi State.
Anyebe noted that young Kogites were already demonstrating creativity and entrepreneurial potential in agriculture, fashion, technology, food businesses and other sectors, but required the right support and enabling environment to transform their ideas into sustainable enterprises.
He said the programme would also provide participants with essential knowledge in business development, financial management, marketing, customer acquisition and responsible capital management.
“A successful business does not merely sell a product; it solves a problem,” he said.
He challenged beneficiaries to identify problems within their communities and develop businesses capable of providing practical solutions and surviving beyond the initial funding.
The Commissioner urged the beneficiaries to utilise the grants wisely, apply the knowledge acquired during the programme and take advantage of mentorship opportunities.
He said the ultimate goal is to raise a new generation of entrepreneurs and employers who would contribute significantly to the economic growth and development of Kogi State.
“An idea can change a life. A business can change a family. An entrepreneur can change a community. And a generation of empowered young entrepreneurs can change an entire state,” he added.
