Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday commissioned an ultra-modern Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) hub for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Calabar, Cross River State.
The hub, located within the newly renovated State Library Complex, is part of the federal government’s pledge to support businesses and the future of work in Nigeria.
During the launch of the 8th Expanded National MSME Clinics in the state, Shettima announced that outstanding business owners in Cross River would each receive an unconditional grant of ₦250,000.
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“This is not a loan. It is a gift to accelerate your journey,” he stated, noting the grant was a directive from President Bola Tinubu.
He highlighted several other initiatives under the Tinubu administration to support MSMEs.
They include ₦75 billion MSME Intervention Fund managed by the Bank of Industry (BoI), ₦50 billion Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme providing ₦50,000 to one million nano businesses nationwide and ₦75 billion Manufacturers Fund allowing manufacturers to access up to ₦1 billion at a 9% interest rate.
The MSME clinics are designed to provide entrepreneurs with direct access to government agencies like the Corporate Affairs Commission, NAFDAC, and the Bank of Industry, allowing them to find solutions to business challenges.
In addition to the ICT hub, Shettima also commissioned two new Bombardier CRJ1000 regional jets for the state-owned airline, Cally Air.
He praised this development, saying it would not only boost air travel but also make the state a more attractive destination for investors.
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The state governor Bassey Otu expressed support for the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms and pledged his state’s commitment to building a formidable economy.
The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, and other dignitaries were also present at the event, underscoring the government’s focus on supporting small businesses and fostering economic growth.
