Oyo,Sterling Bank To Boost Production Of Aso Ofi

4 years ago
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Oyo Govt Partners Sterling Bank To Boost Aso Ofi Production | Reporters At  Large
Sterling Bank Plc has expressed its readiness to help develop the productivity of the locally made Aso Ofi weaving industry in Oyo State.
This was disclosed during a stakeholders’ meeting held between the Oyo State government, Sterling bank Executives and representatives of Aso Oke Weavers and Marketers Association, Iseyin
Speaking at the meeting, the Branch Manager of Iwo Road branch of the bank, Mr Gboyega Owojuyigbe explained that as part of corporate responsibilities of the bank to create employment and job opportunities, it set aside N10billion  as Tourism Development Fund to help grow the Tourism potential in Nigeria which is already being enjoyed in Ekiti, Lagos, Osun and Ogun states.
He added that the bank was willing to partner with Oyo State in empowering the Iseyin traditional industry by granting loan to members of the association with little or no interest without collateral so as to increase their productivity and boost domestic tourism industry in the State.
He said:” Sterling Bank has done it in Lagos, Osun and Ekiti and we are happy that Oyo State has shown interest to also benefit from the scheme. Oyo State will even be better because of its uniqueness in tourism and it’s Pace setter status.”
“Our aim is to improve the standard of living of the the traders in Aso oke business by giving them loan to boost their economy without any collateral as it is being practiced in some advanced countries. Once they access the loan it will be easier for them to produce the Aso Ofi fabrics in large quantities and this will go a long way in promoting the culture and tourism in the State.” He submitted.
In his remark, Hon. Akeem Ademola Ige disclosed that the government of Engr Seyi Makinde accords great priority to empowerment and security of the people in the state,adding that the development explains its  interest in partnering with Sterling Bank so that its citizens can access and benefit from the N10billion  Tourism Development Fund set aside by the bank.
Hon Ige disclosed that the meeting which happened to be the first physical meeting between the bank and the Oyo state government after series of virtual meeting previously held, hinted that many weavers will benefit from the scheme once the arrangement has been perfected between the government and the bank on how the beneficiaries can access the fund.
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