By Lawrence Audu
In a strategic move that underscored the critical role of Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as essential drivers of economic inclusivity, providing vital employment opportunities, Vice President Kashim Shettima, on Tuesday launched the expanded MSMEs clinic in Makurdi, the Benue State Capital.
In his capacity as Chairman of the National Council on MSMEs, Vice President Shettima highlighted the government’s dedication to supporting and promoting the MSME sector, recognizing its potential to drive economic growth and create employment opportunities. This commitment resonated with stakeholders from various sectors who attended the event.
In his remarks, Benue State Governor Rev Fr. Hyacinth Alia lauded President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its focus on youth employment through initiatives like the MSMEs clinic, emphasizing the importance of such programs in driving local economic development.
The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, FNIPR, emphasized the commitment of high-level stakeholders from government, industry, and the private sector to steer the strategic growth of the MSME sector.
Represented by the Director General, Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, Minister advocated for MSMEs to leverage Voice of Nigeria (VON) for global business promotion. He reiterated the minister’s commitment to opening public media outlets for MSME usage, emphasizing the government’s support for the sector’s growth and development.
Furthermore, Ndace expressed VON’s readiness to collaborate with all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and private concerns to actualize President Bola Tinubu’s GCFR Renewed Hope Agenda, highlighting the importance of partnerships in driving the advancement of MSMEs.
The launch of the expanded MSMEs clinic in Benue State marked a significant step in advancing the economic inclusivity and promoting the growth of small businesses, with key stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to supporting and empowering MSMEs as engines of economic development.
