Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has reaffirmed his commitment to boosting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the state.
This assurance was made during his recent visit to Coplad Nigeria Ltd., a rice milling factory located along the Maiduguri-Bama highway.
Governor Zulum emphasized the vital role SMEs play in job creation and poverty alleviation, especially as the state continues to recover from the effects of the Boko Haram insurgency.
The governor’s past support includes approving the disbursement of N814 million to 9,154 MSMEs in 2022, alongside various empowerment initiatives.
Read also:
- World Bank set to approve $1.13bn in loans for Nigeria’s economic sectors
- Nigeria partners with UK biotech firm to boost farming
- Ogun State recognizes top graduates, invests in future workforce
- Ogun East road projects to boost small businesses, local trade
- Nigeria Strengthens global partnerships to boost women’s financial inclusion
In 2021, 13,500 SMEs in Biu, Gwoza, Ngala, and Jere Local Government Areas received N900 million, and N350 million was allocated to 4,250 artisans and traders in Maiduguri and Jere.
Governor Zulum also introduced programs to facilitate local transport and trading. These include the provision of 100 Toyota taxis and 500 KEKE NAPEP in Maiduguri, and further distribution of vehicles in Biu.
Additionally, in 2020, N1 billion was allocated to 7,200 SMEs across various associations. Governor Zulum instructed the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, and Investment to assess Coplad Ltd’s challenges and identify potential government support, while also urging the factory to maintain continuous operations and explore expansion opportunities for increased employment.
Discover more from SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS
Subscribe to get the latest posts to your email.
