Gov. Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara said on Friday in Ilorin that the state government would give out N200 million in soft loan to artisans in the state in 2014.

The governor stated this at the first anniversary of the establishment of Kwara State Joint Association of Commercial Motorcycle Riders.

The governor assured members of the association that they would benefit from the revolving loan to be enjoyed by all small-business owners.

“Today, as we celebrate the first anniversary of the Kwara State Joint Association of Commercial Motorcycle Riders, I am pleased to note that you have proven the cynics wrong,’’ he said.

He said that reports reaching him indicated that there were fewer accidents involving commercial motorcyclists.

The governor also noted that the association’s vigilance and enforcement had reduced the level of crimes involving motorcycle riders in the state.

“These accomplishments are traceable to the leadership of the association and members’ determination and willingness to sanitise your trade and ensure a safer society.

“More importantly, you have demonstrated that given the right incentives and conditions, we, Nigerians, are capable of achieving success in everything we do,” Ahmed added.

He said the state government gave out N100 million in soft loan to members of Kwara Artisans Congress, and had so far disbursed N520 million to tradesmen and women in the state.

“In our determined effort to create prosperity for all, no part of our population will be left out,’’ the governor promised.

“We will ensure that everyone benefits directly and indirectly from the new empowerment programmes that my administration will make available from next year.’’

He appealed to members of the association and the people of the state to remain vigilant and resist any attempt by anyone or group to incite them to violence.

“We all have a responsibility to keep our streets safe, our neighborhoods crime-free, and our communities harmonious,” he added.

The governor urged them to be vigilant and report any suspicious persons to the police.

He urged the leadership of the association to ensure that the association remains law-abiding at all times.