..: Projects aim to boost farmers’ access to markets, improve rural livelihoods

KwaraRising

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Tuesday toured multiple rural road projects in Asa Local Government Area, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to spreading development and connecting rural communities to economic opportunities.

The Governor inspected the 17.7km Madi–Peeke Road and the 23.23km Okolowo Express–Sokoto–Tafatafa–Elere–Owode Oja–Baba Kudu–Akopari–Otte Oja Road, both part of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP). The initiative, jointly funded by the World Bank and the French Development Agency, has received over N4bn in counterpart funding from the state government.

AbdulRazaq urged contractors to deliver quality work within reasonable timelines, stressing that improved road access would empower farmers, facilitate trade, and boost grassroots GDP. “Access to the market means empowerment and an increase in GDP for people at the grassroots,” he said.

During the visit, the Governor stopped at a Garri processing centre in Owode Oja, where he pledged support for mechanisation to enhance productivity without displacing jobs. He also visited the local Primary Health Care Centre, underscoring his administration’s focus on sustainable livelihoods, health, and business growth in rural areas.

Speaking on the broader economic outlook, AbdulRazaq noted that the new tax regime introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would increase revenue at state and local government levels. He assured that his government is determined to ensure the gains are felt by communities at the grassroots.

State RAAMP Coordinator, Engr. Isaac Kolo, said construction work currently includes line drains and culverts, with earthworks and surface dressing set to commence after the rainy season.

Community leaders, including APC Women Leader Mrs. Suleiman Hamdalat and Gari Processing Association Chairperson Mrs. Khadijat Jimoh, lauded the Governor for his continued engagement and commitment to rural development.