Entrepreneurs in Borno State participating in the 6th Expanded National MSME Clinics and Fashion Hub are set to receive an unconditional grant of N300,000 each to bolster their businesses.
Vice President Kashim Shettima made this announcement during the official launch of the initiative on Tuesday at the Government House in Maiduguri
Speaking at the event, Senator Shettima disclosed that each outstanding Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) taking part in the exhibition would qualify for the grant.
“On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I am pleased to announce that an unconditional grant of N300,000 will be awarded to every outstanding MSME showcasing at today’s clinic,” he said.
The Vice President emphasised that the Borno State centre is part of the national drive to establish Expanded National MSME Clinics across the country.
He reassured entrepreneurs that the grants are non-repayable, underscoring the Federal Government’s commitment to sustaining and supporting small businesses.
Senator Shettima also introduced the newly inaugurated Borno State Fashion Hub, which he noted has the potential to generate up to 48,000 jobs annually. He described the hub as a significant development in strengthening the MSME ecosystem in Borno, particularly within the fashion sector.
“This hub stands as one of the largest established by the Federal Government, equipped with cutting-edge facilities to support the fashion industry in Borno State,” he remarked.
In his address, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, highlighted his administration’s inclusive approach to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises. He emphasized that empowering MSMEs is vital to building resilience in the face of economic and security challenges.
Governor Zulum acknowledged the difficulties local entrepreneurs have encountered due to prolonged insurgency and economic uncertainties. He noted that the MSME Clinic would rejuvenate business activities, create employment, and expand income-generating opportunities for residents.
“Our government is dedicated to providing more avenues for our people to improve their livelihoods,” he stated.
He also outlined various initiatives his administration has undertaken, including soft loan disbursements, the construction of modern markets, the establishment of vocational training centres, and the rehabilitation of skill acquisition facilities affected by insurgency.
Governor Zulum expressed confidence that the MSME Clinics would focus on five core areas: financing, skill development, infrastructure, market access, and technology. Additionally, he mentioned that entrepreneurs would benefit from business registration services, training programs, and mentorship opportunities.
“The expansion of this Clinic goes beyond a mere initiative; it is a testament to our belief in the creativity and resilience of Borno’s entrepreneurs. When MSMEs flourish, they generate employment, reduce poverty, and drive innovation,” he said.
Encouraging business owners to take full advantage of the available resources, Governor Zulum urged them to utilize the clinic’s offerings to enhance their skills, grow their businesses, and explore new opportunities.
Ahead of the event, Vice President Shettima officially commissioned the Borno State Fashion Hub, located at the former Kashim Ibrahim College of Education, and a new WEMA Bank partnership branch.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari; the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh; and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson.