The Delta State Government has approved ₦4bn to support 15,000 indigent residents through grants aimed at strengthening small businesses, promoting entrepreneurship and easing economic hardship.
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this while briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at Government House, Asaba.
Aniagwu, who was accompanied by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, said beneficiaries would be selected from the state’s 25 local government areas.
He explained that the initiative would be implemented through the Delta State Social Investment Programme in the coming weeks.
According to the commissioner, Oborevwori has directed that the selection process be guided by clear eligibility criteria to ensure that the support reaches those who need it.
Priority would be given to indigent residents who already operate small businesses, aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to establish micro-enterprises and vulnerable people requiring financial assistance to improve their livelihoods.
Aniagwu said the grants were intended to help existing businesses overcome economic challenges, provide start-up capital for new ventures and support beneficiaries facing pressing financial needs.
He added that the intervention formed part of the state government’s efforts to ensure that the benefits of ongoing economic reforms translated into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary residents.
The government expects the programme to strengthen beneficiaries’ purchasing power and improve livelihoods across Delta State.
