The Reformers Group has empowered over 150 small scale business owners through its Grant Support Programme in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.
The programme, held at the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Office (Ileri-oluwa Building), Ogo-Oluwa, was done as part of the group’s ongoing commitment to community development and economic empowerment.
The event was also held in honor of former governor of the state and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, as well as the Executive Director of Marine and Operations at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Engr. Olakekan Badmus who is a mentor and strong supporter of youth-focused development programs.
At the programme, over 150 small-scale entrepreneurs drawn from different local government areas across Osun State received non-refundable financial grants to support and grow their businesses.
Beneficiaries of the empowerment included the food vendors tailoring, agribusiness, petty trading, barbing, and hairdressing, among others.
Speaking at the event, the founder of the Reformers Group, Muis Yusuf stated that the initiative was designed to addressed challenges faced by local entrepreneurs who often lack access to capital and institutional support.
He said, “This programme is not a one-time event. It is part of our broader strategy to promote economic independence, reduce unemployment, and support the growth of micro-enterprises, especially at the grassroots level.
“The programme focused not only on the disbursement of grants but also on motivating the beneficiaries to adopt discipline, accountability, and growth strategies in running their businesses.
“Selected beneficiaries were also enrolled into the group’s follow-up and mentorship structure, which will help monitor their business progress.”
The group noted that the choice of honoring Oyetola and Badmus was due to their track records in governance, public service, and their unwavering support for youth and grassroots development initiatives.
“Their names were used to inspire participants to embrace responsibility, excellence, and service.”
The group said the Grant Support Programme will continue and will be extend to other states in future, with the goal of reaching more small business owners and unemployed youths.
It, however, reaffirmed its commitment towards promoting practical empowerment programmes that deliver real results and address everyday needs of citizens.
Some of the participants at the event commended the initiative and described it as timely and impactful considering current economic challenges.
They stated that the support would help revived and expand their businesses, which had been struggling due to lack of funding.
The programme was supported by Team Omo Oloote and other local stakeholders.