Kwara State Targets 1,400 Beneficiaries in Loan Scheme

The Kwara State Government, led by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, is targeting 1,400 beneficiaries in a World Bank-backed community loan scheme aimed at enhancing agricultural growth and environmental resilience in semi-arid landscapes. This initiative seeks to expand the reach of its revolving fund from an initial 1,000 beneficiaries across rural communities.

A statement issued on Friday by Taiwo Okanlawon, the communication officer, revealed that the program is designed to support community-based groups. Nafisat Musa Buge, the chairman of the state steering committee, noted that the first phase of the program covers 50 community interest groups drawn from 10 communities, with 1,000 beneficiaries already captured.

Each community group will receive ₦25,000, with loans expected to be repaid within eight months. The program also includes retraining exercises to equip beneficiaries with practical knowledge to improve implementation and reduce post-disbursement challenges.

Shamsideen Aregbeshola coordinates the project, which aims to ensure sustainable economic opportunities for rural dwellers.