Sokoto state government has earmarked N90 million for the purchase of 300 tricycles, popularly called Keke NAPEP, the state commissioner for special duties, Abdullahi Abubakar, said.
Mr. Abubakar told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Sokoto on Sunday that the tricycles would be given to unemployed youths in the 23 local government areas of the state.
He said that beneficiaries of the tricycles, who would be given on loan basis, are expected to pay a total of N300, 000 for each tricycle.
He added that the beneficiaries would pay in installments, which would be worked out by the state government “as it is an interest-free loan.’’
The commissioner said “the gesture is part of the sustained state government’s initiatives to further alleviate poverty in the state.
“It is aimed at empowering the youths, as the tricycles will be given out on loan basis to them.’’
Mr. Abubakar added that the tricycles would go a long way in reducing transportation problem in Sokoto city and its environ.
The state government would continue to initiate and implement policies that would further improve the living standards of the people, he said.
(NAN)