Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima has stated that the federal government’s intervention in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is designed to create a conducive environment and boost the nation’s economy.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Benue MSME Fashion Hub in Makurdi on Tuesday, the Vice President described MSMEs as the lifeline of the nation’s economy, adding that the hub is expected to generate 48,000 jobs.
The VP was represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff in the Office of the Vice President, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, who emphasised that MSMEs are a strong pillar of economic stability.
He said, “It is evident that it will be impossible to grow Nigeria’s economy if MSMEs are not a top priority. MSMEs are the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, accounting for 96 per cent of business activities and contributing over 45 per cent to our economy.”
“Without them, over 80 per cent of Nigeria’s workforce would have been without jobs.”
While noting that fashion hubs and ICT centres are to be established in all states of the federation, the Vice President mentioned that, out of five hubs inaugurated so far, the Benue Fashion Hub remains one of the largest.
He added, “The Benue hub has over 200 pieces of machinery and 100 ICT units. The machinery has the capacity to produce military uniforms and school uniforms for the state and beyond.”
“We are confident that this hub meets global standards and is expected to provide approximately 48,000 jobs,” the VP said.
Earlier, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, Mr. Tola Adekunle, stated that the federal government is committed to supporting all state governments to succeed through MSMEs.
Mr Adekunle further commended Governor Alia for his achievements and encouraged him to continue his efforts for the benefit of the Benue people.
Also speaking, the state governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, applauded the federal government for the initiative and expressed confidence that it would act as a catalyst for growth and development, not only in the state but across the entire Middle Belt region.
“We are committed to ensuring that the project fulfils its purpose of empowering our people and contributing to the socio-economic transformation of our state,” he said.
Governor Alia also expressed gratitude for the donation of 70 computers to power the ICT section of the hub, various sewing and weaving machines, a 100KVA generator, and other equipment.
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