President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the provision of a N150,000 federal government grant to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Ekiti State. Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed this directive during the launch of the 3rd edition of the Expanded National MSMEs Clinic in Ado Ekiti.
Details of the Grant
– Amount: N150,000 per MSME
– Nature: Outright grant (no repayment required)
– Purpose: To support and empower MSMEs in Ekiti State
Expanded National MSMEs Clinic
The Expanded National MSMEs Clinics aim to ease business operations in Nigeria by addressing challenges faced by MSMEs. This series of forums, organized in different cities, offers on-the-spot solutions. The first two editions took place in Benue and Ogun States.
Upcoming Editions: The initiative will continue in Borno and Enugu States, concluding with the National MSME Awards in the Federal Capital Territory on June 27, 2024, to mark the United Nations World MSME Day.
Event Highlights in Ekiti State
Arrival and Reception: The Vice President was welcomed by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, his wife, and other top officials. The visit included commissioning the Ekiti State Ultra-Modern Fashion and Garment Hub at Odua Textile Complex and inspecting the Adire Ekiti Hub.
Launch and Inspection: At the Trade Fair Complex on Old Iyin Road, the VP launched the third edition of the Expanded MSME Clinics and hinted at future editions. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting small businesses as vital community lifelines and economic stabilizers.
Ekiti State Ultra-Modern Fashion and Garment Hub
– Potential: Estimated to create 48,000 jobs annually
– Facilities: Capable of producing a wide range of fashion items, including military uniforms
– Equipment: Over 300 pieces of modern machinery
– Management: To be overseen by a private sector entity with government oversight
ICT Hub in Erinmope: Although time constraints prevented its commissioning, the President has approved Governor Oyebanji to facilitate its opening. This hub is expected to create an additional 10,000 jobs within the ICT sector.
Future Project: An additional modern ICT facility will be established in Ado Ekiti, slated for completion within 90 days.
Community and Official Responses
– Governor Biodun Oyebanji: Praised the federal support and emphasized the importance of unity in attracting resources for the state’s benefit.
– Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele: Highlighted federal-state collaboration and announced plans to allocate constituency funds for MSME development.
– Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake: Assured the community of prioritized welfare and encouraged support for the federal government’s restructuring efforts.
Vice President’s Visit to Ewi of Ado-Ekiti’s Palace
VP Shettima visited the palace of HRM Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, commending Ekiti for its honor and peace. The Ewi of Ado-Ekiti expressed gratitude for the federal initiatives supporting local businesses and the commissioning of the garment hub.
