Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has launched the distribution of N350 million in interest-free loans to 1,000 residents, in a move aimed at boosting small businesses, strengthening grassroots economies, and driving sustainable development across communities.
The initiative, flagged off on Wednesday in Ilorin, targets organised community groups, including women, youth, farmers, and cooperatives, as part of efforts to expand economic opportunities at the local level. Beneficiaries were drawn from different community interest groups, with each group receiving structured financial support under the scheme.
The programme is powered by the World Bank through the Community Revolving Fund (CRF) and is being implemented under the Kwara State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project. According to the state government, the intervention is designed not just as financial support, but as a revolving scheme that encourages repayment to allow continuous access for others.
Speaking at the launch, AbdulRazaq said the partnership with the World Bank reflects the administration’s commitment to improving livelihoods and stimulating the local economy.
“This World Bank-supported initiative has been designed to provide our women, youth, farmers, and cooperatives with access to resources that will enable them to create wealth, generate employment, and uplift households. Hence, it is a practical step towards reducing poverty,” the governor said.
He urged beneficiaries to make productive use of the funds and adhere strictly to repayment terms to sustain the programme.
“I congratulate all the pioneer beneficiaries. You are leading the way with these dedicated funds which you would be required to refund to enable it to reach more lives,” he added.
Commissioner for Environment and Chairman of the ACReSAL Steering Committee, Nafisat Musa Buge, emphasised that the long-term success of the scheme depends on accountability among beneficiaries.
“Today is not just about the distribution of funds; it is about planting another seed of hope, empowerment, and sustainable growth in our community,” she said, urging prompt repayment to ensure the continuity of the revolving fund.
She also noted that beyond credit support, the ACReSAL project has delivered basic amenities such as potable water to rural communities, improving living conditions alongside economic empowerment.
State Project Coordinator for ACReSAL, Shamsideen Aregbe, described the initiative as a reflection of the governor’s commitment to inclusive development and shared prosperity, while acknowledging the role of development partners and stakeholders in bringing the project to life.
Traditional and community leaders present at the event, including the Emir of Shonga, Haliru Yahaya, commended the government’s focus on community-based development, noting that several communities have already benefitted from related interventions under the programme.
