Foundation disburses N12.5m empowerment to small businesses in Kwara

The Gbenga Hashim Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots development with the disbursement of an additional N12.5 million to small businesses across Kwara state.

Speaking at the disbursement ceremony in Ilorin, the state capital, Gbenga Hashim, represented by Abdulrazaq Hamzat, said that the latest donation brings the foundation’s total cash empowerment for 2024 in the state to nearly N100 million, aimed to impact entrepreneurs and boost local economies.

Beyond Kwara, he said that the foundation has implemented similar initiatives in states like Osun, Kogi, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), showcasing its nationwide dedication to fostering economic self-reliance.

In Kwara State, the 2024 empowerment programme supported 1,000 small business owners across all 16 local government areas, providing critical funding to help them enhance their livelihoods and expand their operations.

Hashim, who encouraged beneficiaries to use the grant wisely, said that proper utilization could qualify them for larger support in the future.

“If you use this small grant well and show us the result of your engagement, you will qualify for another phase which will be bigger”, he stated.

Beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude for the initiative, which many described as a lifeline for struggling businesses. One of the attendees, Mariam Ajao, shared her experience: “I came because I have benefited from the Gbenga Hashim Empowerment. They credited the support to our account since last week, and when I heard this event was coming up, I felt I had to be here even though it is not compulsory”.

Alhaja Aladi, a long-time associate of Gbenga Hashim, commended his integrity and leadership. “Gbenga Hashim is a man of integrity and a leader who carries everyone along. I encourage all attendees to imbibe his values in the course of their business,” she said.

Representing other coordinators, Ilorin East Local Government Coordinator, Kolapo Olaitan, highlighted the unique structure of the program, noting that beneficiaries were credited before the event. “We are here as representatives of larger beneficiaries to commend the foundation for this initiative. Gbenga Hashim Foundation did not ask people to converge here to collect empowerment; everyone had already received their funds,” he explained.

Promoted by prominent politician and former presidential candidate Gbenga Hashim, the foundation continues to champion small business empowerment and economic growth. With its ongoing efforts, the Gbenga Hashim Foundation is setting a benchmark for sustainable grassroots development and nationwide economic transformation.

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