The Kogi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment as a cornerstone for boosting businesses and fostering economic growth.
Speaking during a leadership retreat and ministerial briefing held at Government House, Lokoja, the Secretary to the Government, Dr. Folashade Ayo-Ade Arike, highlighted key initiatives driving youth engagement and business development in the state.
Dr. Arike revealed that over 10,000 farmers, including young agripreneurs, have benefited from the Agricultural Expansion Initiative, gaining access to improved seeds, fertilizers, and mechanized equipment.
This initiative has spurred a 25% increase in agricultural productivity, positioning Kogi as a leader in the production of staple crops like cassava and rice.
The establishment of Agro-Processing Centers, she noted, has created over 2,000 direct and indirect jobs, offering young entrepreneurs opportunities to participate in the agricultural value chain.
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“These centers are not just processing hubs but platforms for skill acquisition and entrepreneurship development for our youth,” she stated.
Dr. Arike further commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his strategic focus on youth-centered policies. “In less than a year, Governor Ododo’s administration has demonstrated a clear commitment to empowering our youth, driving innovation, and creating an enabling environment for business growth,” she added.
The administration’s infrastructure projects, including the GYB Junction and Zone-8 Roundabout-Crusher roads, also aim to improve market access for small businesses, many of which are youth-led.
Additionally, erosion control projects have enhanced transportation and logistics, directly impacting over 300,000 residents and facilitating smooth business operations.
Dr. Arike called on stakeholders at the retreat to prioritize the empowerment of Kogi’s youth, emphasizing the need for inter-ministerial collaboration to harness their potential. “By enhancing leadership capacity, fostering economic growth, and promoting youth-driven entrepreneurship, we are laying a solid foundation for Kogi’s sustainable development,” she said.
This renewed focus on youth empowerment highlights the administration’s vision of fostering a thriving business ecosystem and creating opportunities for the next generation of entrepreneurs in Kogi State.
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