The Jos South Local Government Council has begun a ₦60 million women’s business empowerment scheme, with 300 market women receiving ₦100,000 each in the first phase.
The initiative, launched by the council chairman, Hon. Silas Patrick Dung, is designed to support small-scale traders, strengthen their businesses and improve household livelihoods across the five districts of the local government area.
Dung said the first phase fulfilled part of his administration’s campaign promises, adding that the scheme would eventually reach 600 women. The remaining 300 beneficiaries are expected to receive grants in the second phase.
The chairman, who is also Deputy Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), urged the beneficiaries to invest the money in their businesses rather than treat it as a windfall.
He said the success of the first phase would be a factor in determining the implementation of the second phase, placing responsibility on beneficiaries to use the funds for their intended purpose.
Dung acknowledged the support of Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, saying the governor’s backing had helped make the initiative possible.
Stakeholders, including the Leader of the Jos South Legislative Council, Emmanuel Chomoshen, and representatives of the local APC leadership, commended the scheme and urged the women to use the grants to grow their businesses and improve their families’ economic conditions.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Christiana Dalyop expressed appreciation to the council chairman for the financial support.
The scheme’s impact will ultimately depend on whether the grants help beneficiaries sustain their businesses, increase their earnings and improve their livelihoods.
