Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo says his administration has so far disbursed N2 billion grant to 19,023 beneficiaries, mostly unemployed youths and vulnerable persons in the state.
He said the money was disbursed under the government’s Labour-Intensive Public Works (LIPW) programme.
The governor said this on Wednesday in Akure during the launch of the orientation and disbursement under the OD-CARES social transfer and LIPW.
He said the essence was to reduce poverty and enhance local economy with further instruction for the enrolment of additional 1,000 beneficiaries to empower more unemployed youths in the state.
Mr Aiyedatiwa said the federal government also paid N2 billion to 77,000 persons under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The Ondo State Conditional Cash Transfer Unit has assisted over 7,500 persons across the state through the OD-CARES programme.
“Over N2 billion has been disbursed to support the aged and chronically-ill adults with a total of 2,870 beneficiaries receiving bi-monthly stipends of N20,000 each.
“Furthermore, preparations for the enrolment of additional 5,000 new beneficiaries are in top gear.
“Our resolve to transform lives is a continuous exercise.
“We assure you that our administration would work tirelessly to ensure that our most vulnerable citizens receive the support they deserve,” he said.
Earlier, Mr Felix Alonge, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment Programme, commended the administration for prioritising the needs of young people and vulnerable groups.
“This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to reducing unemployment and fostering social inclusion.
“It is a testament to the governor’s vision of a fair and prosperous state, where every citizen can access the support they need to improve their lives,” Mr Alonge said.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Enuiyin Oluwafunmilayo, appreciated the state government for providing her a lifeline.
“These funds will help me meet my essential needs and ease the financial burden I have been facing,” Mrs Oluwafunmilayo said.
(NAN)
