The Ekiti state government has approved the sum of N300 million as grants in aid for self-help projects in 82 communities in the state.
Addressing jounalists in Ado Ekiti, the Commissioner for Rural Development and Community Empowerment, Folorunsho Olabode said the Kayode Fayemi led government has made rural development one of its cardinal programmes.
The administration, he said, plans to turn around the state for better and to enhance the provision of basic amenities to the rural dwellers to improve their standard of living and ensure that they have a sustainable livelihood.
He also said the governor, Mr Fayemi has also directed that local artisans and labour should be used to execute these projects especially where special techniques are not needed.
The commissioner for information and civic orientation, Tayo Ekundayo pointed out that most of the local people are no longer interested in such labour anymore.