Kogi GOBO Initiative Empowers Petty Traders in Kabba Central Market

…Reinforces Support for Governor Ododo

By Obansa Ibrahim, Lokoja

The Kogi Forum of Senior Special Assistants (KFSSA) and leaders of the Governor Ododo Business Outreach (GOBO) on Saturday visited Kabba Central Market to empower local traders and engage community leaders. This outreach programme marked a significant step in bringing socio-economic development closer to the grassroots.

Led by Hon. Yahaya Shehu Ahmed, Chairman and Director General of GOBO, the delegation began their activities with a courtesy visit to the palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Solomon Dele Owoniyi.

The traditional ruler commended the initiative and the foresight of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo in appointing competent individuals dedicated to improving the lives of citizens.

The team then visited the official residence of the Executive Chairman of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, Hon. (Barr.) Zacchaeus Dare Michael, who expressed his appreciation for the efforts of KFSSA and GOBO, noting that the outreach was a commendable step toward bridging the gap between government appointees and the grassroots.

At Kabba Central Market, the GOBO team provided direct financial support to 20 petty traders, including sellers of berneseed, tomatoes, and roasted plantains.

Each beneficiary received N50,000 naira to expand their businesses. The gesture aimed to improve the economic situation of the traders and inspire confidence in the government’s dedication to addressing the needs of ordinary citizens.

The initiative also included plans to monitor the progress of the beneficiaries, ensuring that the financial assistance achieves its intended purpose. Hon. Femi Esemikose and Hon. Augustine Egbebi were tasked with following up on the traders’ activities.

The success of the Kabba-Bunu outreach is expected to serve as a model for similar initiatives in other parts of Kogi West Senatorial District and the state. As the GOBO programme continues to expand, more communities are expected to benefit from its efforts to empower individuals and enhance economic development.