Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday, inaugurated the 6th expanded National Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Clinic and Fashion Hub in Maiduguri, Borno State, announcing an unconditional grant of N300, 000 for each participating entrepreneur.
Speaking at the event held at the Government House, Maiduguri, the vice president highlighted the federal government’s commitment to supporting small businesses.
He revealed that each of the outstanding MSMEs exhibiting at the clinic will receive the grant, describing it as a step towards empowering entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth.
“I am pleased to announce, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, that an unconditional grant of N300, 000 will be awarded to each outstanding MSME exhibiting at today’s clinic. This reflects our administration’s dedication to ensuring the sustainability and success of small businesses,” Shettima stated.
The vice president also inaugurated the newly established Borno State Fashion Hub, describing it as a landmark initiative capable of creating up to 48, 000 jobs annually.
The hub, equipped with the state-of-the-art facilities, aims to bolster the fashion industry and stimulate MSME growth in the state.
Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, lauded the initiative, emphasizing the role of MSMEs in strengthening resilience amidst the challenges faced by the state.
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He noted that the prolonged insurgency and economic difficulties had adversely affected small businesses in the region.
“The MSME Clinic will revitalise business activities in Borno State, create employment opportunities, and expand income sources for our people,” Gov. Zulum said.
The governor outlined his administration’s efforts to support entrepreneurs, including providing soft loans, constructing modern markets, establishing vocational training institutions, and renovating skill acquisition centres damaged during the insurgency.
He stressed that the clinic will address key areas such as funding, skill development, infrastructure, market access, and technology, while also offering services like business registration and mentorship.
“This initiative is a testament to our belief in the creativity and resilience of the entrepreneurs in Borno State and Nigeria,” Gov. Zulum said, adding that “when MSMEs thrive, they create jobs, reduce poverty, and drive innovation.”
Earlier, Shettima had commissioned the Borno State Fashion Hub at the former Kashim Ibrahim College of Education and a partnership branch of WEMA Bank.
