In a bid to celebrate and incentivize innovation and resilience among entrepreneurs, the Federal Government has announced plans to bestow monetary rewards upon exceptional individuals who have excelled in their endeavors.
According to a statement released by Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, the Senior Special Assistant on job creation and MSMEs, recipients of these rewards will be granted houses, cars, and cash prizes as part of the events commemorating the 2024 MSMEs Week.
Adekunle-Johnson highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating that it underscores the government’s commitment to promoting and rewarding the activities of small-scale businesses.
The MSMEs award ceremony, scheduled to coincide with the 2024 United Nations World MSMEs Day, aims to recognise and support outstanding small businesses across the nation.
“The Federal Government has made provisions to reward small business owners as part of the celebrations marking World MSMEs Day. This year, small-scale enterprises will be presented with Sport Utility Vehicles, houses, and financial grants,” Adekunle-Johnson affirmed.
Furthermore, Adekunle-Johnson emphasised that the MSMEs award is an annual endeavour aimed at honouring indigenous MSMEs and acknowledging the contributions of both businesses and state governments to the growth of the small business sector in Nigeria.
He disclosed that the selection process for the awards involves specific criteria, including registration with regulatory bodies such as the Standard Organisation of Nigeria, the Corporate Affairs Commission, and the National Agency for Food, Drugs Administration, and Control.
The announcement also detailed the upcoming activities, including the opening of the MSMEs application portal on May 1, with a closing date set for May 30th.
Adekunle-Johnson further noted that the award ceremony serves as the official conclusion to the National MSME Week, acknowledging the efforts and innovations of MSMEs across Nigeria, as well as the contributions of state governments to their growth.
With over five award ceremonies held thus far, recognising more than 40 winners, MSMEs Week continues to be a vital platform for showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit and achievements of small businesses in the country.
The statement concluded with an indication that Vice-President Kashim Shettima is expected to attend the FCT MSMEs clinic at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, scheduled for June 25. Adekunle-Johnson also highlighted the government’s commitment to expanding national MSMEs clinics, providing opportunities for businesses to exhibit their products, access investments, and develop crucial aspects such as funding, skill development, infrastructure, market access, and technology.
