The Governor Sheriff Oborevwori-led Delta State Government has approved N4 billion to empower 15,000 indigent residents across the state, alongside the reconstruction of major roads in Warri, Effurun and other communities.
The empowerment programme is aimed at supporting small businesses, promoting entrepreneurship and cushioning the effects of economic hardship among vulnerable residents in the state’s 25 local government areas.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, made this known on Friday while briefing journalists after the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at Government House, Asaba.
He was accompanied by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon.
Aniagwu said the initiative would be implemented through the Delta State Social Investment Programme in the coming weeks, adding that the governor had directed that beneficiaries be selected based on clearly defined eligibility criteria.
He said priority would be given to indigent residents operating small businesses, aspiring entrepreneurs seeking start-up capital and vulnerable persons requiring financial assistance to improve their livelihoods.
According to him, the grants will help existing businesses overcome economic challenges, enable aspiring entrepreneurs to establish micro-enterprises and provide relief for beneficiaries facing pressing financial needs.
Aniagwu said the intervention reflected the government’s determination to ensure that the benefits of economic reforms translated into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Deltans.
The commissioner said the executive council also approved the reconstruction of major roads, including Airport Road in Warri, Jakpa Road and Refinery Road in Effurun.
Other approved projects are the construction of internal roads in Emede under Phases One and Two, and the reconstruction of Ugbolu-Illah Road.
He said the projects are expected to improve connectivity, ease transportation and support commercial activities in the benefiting communities.
In the area of agricultural investment, Aniagwu said the exco approved compensation for land acquired in Delta Central Senatorial District for agricultural purposes.
He said the decision followed discussions at previous economic summits, where the need to make land available for large-scale farming and agricultural investment was identified as a priority.