Makinde Exposes FG’s Deceit: N570 Billion Hardship Fund a Loan, Not a Grant•Highlights Commitment to Productivity and Sustainability

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has addressed concerns over the purported N570 billion Hardship Fund allegedly given to the 36 states by the Federal Government. The governor in his news letter clarified that the funds were part of the World Bank-assisted NG-CARES project, a loan program aimed at supporting states in Nigeria with COVID-19 recovery.

The governor explained that the funds were reimbursed to states for expenses already incurred in implementing the program, and not a grant from the Federal Government. He emphasized that Oyo State had been transparent in its handling of donor-facilitated interventions and had been recognized as a model for other states to follow.

Governor Makinde also highlighted his administration’s commitment to productivity and sustainability, particularly in the agriculture sector. He mentioned the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, another World Bank-facilitated initiative, aimed at creating a resilient livestock landscape in the state.

As he takes a brief pause from his duties, Governor Makinde expressed confidence in the structures put in place to drive the state forward, thanking citizens for their support and understanding.