Ilorin petty traders receive boost from Omar Bolaji Gambari foundation
In a bid to cushion the effects of economic hardship and promote grassroots development, the Omar Bolaji Gambari Foundation on Friday extended financial support to scores of petty traders across four major markets in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.
The outreach, which took place in Idi-Ape, Oja-Oba, Adifa, and Ipata markets, focused on empowering small-scale traders through direct cash donations. Beneficiaries included local food vendors, fruit sellers, and artisans, many of whom operate at subsistence levels.
Speaking with journalists during the exercise, representatives of the Foundation said the initiative was designed to boost micro-businesses that form a vital part of the informal economy.
“These traders are the heartbeat of local commerce. By providing them with financial support, we hope to enable them to restock their goods, stay in business, and continue to support their families,” a spokesperson said.
Traders who benefited from the gesture expressed appreciation, describing the assistance as timely, particularly in light of rising commodity prices and reduced consumer purchasing power.
“I came to the market with barely enough capital today. This money will allow me to buy more vegetables and possibly make some profit by tomorrow,” said Raliat Yusuf, a vegetable seller at Idi-Ape market.
Market leaders also welcomed the intervention, praising the Foundation for its direct engagement with the community and for targeting those most in need.
The Omar Bolaji Gambari Foundation has in recent years intensified its philanthropic efforts across Kwara State, with interventions spanning education, youth empowerment, and healthcare. Friday’s market outreach, observers say, aligns with its broader commitment to promoting inclusive growth and reducing poverty at the grassroots.
As traders returned to their stalls with smiles and renewed hope, the Foundation reaffirmed its promise to continue identifying and supporting vulnerable groups across the state.
