Gov Ododo Approves Incentives for Kogi Artisans, Entrepreneurs

Artisans and entrepreneurs across Kogi State are set to benefit from operational tools and business incentives following the approval of a new empowerment initiative by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo aimed at strengthening small businesses and boosting economic growth.

The initiative was announced during the maiden Kogi Governor–Artisans and Entrepreneurs Interface and Roundtable held at the Government House in Lokoja.

The event, facilitated by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy Matters and Chairman of the Forum of Special Advisers, Hon. Olabode Adeyemi, brought together representatives of various trade associations and business groups to discuss ways of enhancing collaboration between the government and the informal sector.

Addressing participants, Governor Ododo disclosed that all registered entrepreneurs operating within organised trades in the state would benefit from empowerment programmes that include the distribution of operational tools and working incentives. According to him, the intervention is designed to improve productivity, support business expansion and create more economic opportunities for residents.

The governor also approved the immediate establishment of a Mechanic Village, which he said would provide a coordinated and technologically enhanced environment for automobile-related businesses. He further pledged logistics support for artisans to improve their daily operations and overall efficiency.

Speaking at the gathering, Adeyemi described the interface as a landmark engagement between the government and entrepreneurs, noting that artisans and small business operators remain critical drivers of economic activities across the state.

He commended Governor Ododo’s commitment to inclusive development, saying the administration’s policies are deliberately focused on bringing governance closer to the people while promoting shared prosperity.

Representatives of several trade associations, including the National Automobile Association of Nigeria, the Nigeria Woodwork, Carpenters and Furniture Association of Nigeria, and the Market Women Association, lauded the governor’s efforts in areas such as education, healthcare, security, air transportation and job creation.

They expressed confidence in the administration’s development agenda and pledged continued support for its programmes and policies.

Other groups represented at the roundtable included the Tailors Association of Nigeria, the National Union of Road Transport Workers, the Hairdressers Association of Nigeria, the Aluminum Works Practitioners Association and other professional and trade bodies.

The Kogi State Government said the engagement forms part of a broader strategy to deepen economic inclusion, expand entrepreneurship opportunities and tackle insecurity through sustainable empowerment initiatives.

According to the government, supporting artisans and entrepreneurs remains one of the most effective ways of creating jobs, stimulating local economies and reducing the socio-economic conditions that contribute to insecurity.