Ortom encourages Benue people to venture into businesses

Gov. Samuel Ortom of Benue has advised the people, especially youths, to venture into commercial activities to be self-reliant as white collar jobs were difficult to come by.

Ortom gave the advice on Monday in Makurdi while inauguration Benysta Microfinance Bank, built by a front line politician in the state, Mr Asema Achado.

“Since white collar jobs were not forthcoming, commerce and agriculture remained the only way out.

“There are no more white collar jobs from the federal, state and local governments, hence the need for alternative means of livelihood.

“My administration will create the enabling environment for business and agricultural activities to thrive, to encourage many people to venture into them to better their lots.

“I want to commend Achado for keying into the vision of my administration which is anchored on private sector driven economy’’, he said.

Achado disclosed that as the Chairman of the bank, he could not give authority note to anybody to access loan facility from the bank because he was warned by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Achado, also the President, Benue Chamber of Commerce, Mines and Agriculture (BECCIMA), said that if he violated the rule, he would be removed from his position by the CBN.

“I cannot even surety anyone, anybody that wants to access loans from the bank should contact other personalities to surety them,’’ he said.

The Vice President, BECCIMA, Mr Mhii Aii-Yenge, described Achado as a wonderful entrepreneur who had done remarkable things for the development of Benue.

Aii-Yenge prayed God to continue to give him the the strength to soar higher.

The Chairman, Gwer Local Government Area Traditional Council, Chief Dominic Akpe, thanked Achado for initiating the people-oriented project that would put smiles on the faces of the community.