We shall use N4.8b inherited funds for social security, infrastructure in Kwara – Gov. Abdulrazaz

By A’isha Raji

The Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman declared that his administration will use the N4.8 billion inherited from the past government to improve the quality of live of the people of the state.

The Governor spoke at the state capital Ilorin, Friday as part of the programme to mark his first 100 days in office.

Speaking further, the governor said the funds will be used to kick start the state’s social security program and put basic infrastructure in place.

He said, “With our Kwara State Social Investment Program (KWASSIP), traders and artisans can access N1billion soft loans.” According to Abdulrahman, the loans will cover 1000 beneficiaries. “We cannot watch while our people are suffering. We have to do something in that regard,” he declared.

Modeled after the federal government’s social investment program, KWASSIP would comprise Kwara State Conditional Cash Transfer which will support those within the lowest poverty bracket by improving nutrition and increasing household consumption.

Other programs outlined are Kwara State Poverty Reduction Program (KWSPRP), which is to assist the people of Kwara develop lifelong skills, Kwara State Government Entrepreneur and Empowerment Program (KWSGEEP) which is to lend money to petty traders, artisans, farmers and enterprising youths.

Looking at the suffering of children in Kwara state, the governor also announced plan to kick start the much awaited Home Grown School Feeding Program (HGSF) which will ensure the feeding of school children in order to increase enrolment, reduce malnutrition, empower community women and support small farmers in the state.