The Ogun State Ministry of Community Development and Cooperatives has announced the commencement of the registration process for the disbursement of N500 million in business and industrial grants to artisans and small-scale business owners across the state.

The Commissioner for the Ministry, Mr. Ademola Balogun, disclosed this during an appearance before the State House of Assembly Committee on Community Development and Cooperatives, led by Hon. Dickson Awolaja. The meeting was part of the ongoing 2025 mid-year budget performance appraisal held at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Balogun commended the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration for its commitment to empowering residents to boost socio-economic development and self-sufficiency. He assured that the disbursement process would be transparent and inclusive, catering to all categories of beneficiaries, including artisans and small-scale entrepreneurs.

In his remarks, the Committee Chairman advocated for increased funding to strengthen grassroots economic activities, investments, and cooperative initiatives.

Meanwhile, the House Committee on Youth and Sports, chaired by Hon. Lukman Atobatele, also appraised the budget performance of the Ministry of Sports Development. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Lanre Ogunyinka, presented the ministry’s achievements, including the successful hosting of the National Sports Festival, tagged *‘2024 Gateway Games.’*

Ogunyinka highlighted other key accomplishments, such as the renovation and upgrade of the MKO Abiola Sports Arena and Alake Sports Complex, which now feature Olympic-standard swimming pools, tennis courts, and other modern facilities.

The Permanent Secretary expressed gratitude to the State House of Assembly for its continued support, emphasising the ministry’s commitment to advancing sports development in Ogun State.