In a move to boost micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), in Nigeria, Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima inaugurated the first-ever Expanded National MSME Clinic in Benue State.
The initiative, a brainchild of the federal government, aims to provide entrepreneurs with a crucial platform to showcase their efforts and enhance their products for potential export opportunities.
During the ceremony held at the IBB Square in Makurdi, Vice President Shettima emphasized the clinic’s alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to supporting MSME growth and fostering business development in the country.
He highlighted the MSME clinic as a symbol of empowerment, urging business owners in Benue State to recognize themselves as a priority for the Tinubu-led government.
Additionally, Vice President Shettima announced plans for the establishment of a world-class fashion hub in Makurdi, set to be operational within 90 days. He shared details of financial support initiatives, including a N75 billion 9% single-digit loan from BOI and N50 billion from Access Bank at a discounted rate of 15%, with potential increases based on loan performance.
The Vice President outlined the strategic itinerary of the MSME Clinic train, which is scheduled to traverse Ebonyi, Ogun, Delta, Kaduna, Borno, Katsina, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), in the first half of the year.
The culmination of these efforts will be marked by the National MSME Awards on June 27, 2024, commemorating the United Nations World MSME Day.
Expressing gratitude, Governor Hyacinth Alia acknowledged the federal government’s role in opening up Benue for business.
He commended local entrepreneurs for showcasing various locally produced organic products. However, Governor Alia highlighted challenges faced by businesses in the state, including insecurity, the absence of regulatory frameworks for small businesses, and limited access to credit facilities.
The MSME Clinic initiative is poised to make a significant impact on entrepreneurship and economic development, with its emphasis on empowerment and support for businesses across various sectors.
