The Ogun State Government began distributing the second phase of the N1 billion Operational Grant for Micro and Small Enterprises in the state under the OG-CARES initiative on Wednesday.
The initial disbursement occurred in 2023, benefiting 1,000 micro entrepreneurs with N100,000 each, and small scale entrepreneurs with N350,000 each.
Approximately 2,822 entrepreneurs are set to benefit from this second phase.
During the event at the Obas’ Complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Governor Dapo Abiodun highlighted his administration’s commitment to supporting the growth of the state’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as part of the “Building Our Future Together” Agenda. Represented by Deputy Governor Engr. (Mrs) Noimot Salako-Oyedele, he emphasized the vital role these enterprises play in fostering innovation and inclusive economic growth.
The governor added that the grant disbursement aims to support businesses amid global economic challenges. He explained that beneficiaries were carefully chosen through a strategic and inclusive process involving local government chairs, market associations, community councils, the private sector, youth organizations, and disability associations. 
Expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating the scheme, Governor Abiodun assured that the disbursement would extend beyond its initial end date in June 2024, urging recipients to utilize the grants wisely.
Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, reminded beneficiaries to use the grant purposefully and not as “national cake.”
Finance Commissioner and OG-CARES steering committee Chairman, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, noted that the disbursement began in 2022 to mitigate COVID-19’s impact, benefiting 2,822 small and micro enterprises in this phase. He urged recipients to use the funds judiciously for social protection and to support agricultural businesses.
ALGON Chairman and Ijebu Ode Local Government Chairman, Hon. Emilola Gazal, praised the state government for its grassroots support, noting the grant’s timely assistance amid widespread hardship.
Leaders like Dr. Femi Egbesola of the Association of Business Owners of Nigeria and Alhaja Yemisi Abass, represented by Chief (Mrs) Ganiyat Oyelakin, lauded the governor for his efforts in empowering small business owners, youths, farmers, and market traders, noting that the OG-CARES scheme has turned many beneficiaries into employers.
