Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians that the government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, remains committed to protecting businesses in the country. Shettima emphasised that businesses are the bedrock of society, reflecting the government’s direction and speed of progress.
During the inauguration of the corporate headquarters of the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) in Abuja, Shettima highlighted the Tinubu administration’s strategic focus on job creation, capital accessibility, economic growth, and poverty eradication to revive the economy.
Shettima stated, “Allow me to emphasise the importance of this moment: there is no more fitting time than now to reinforce the protection of enterprises in Nigeria. These enterprises not only stand as the very bedrock of our society but also reflect the direction the government is headed and the velocity with which we do so.”
“This moment solidifies His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s assurance to protect our enterprises. It resonates deeply within our economic revitalisation plan. His focus on job creation, capital accessibility, economic growth, and poverty eradication forms the very skeleton of our strategy to invigorate the economy. Inevitably, this path demands tough decisions, yet ones essential to our success.”
The Vice President mentioned the recent inauguration of the National MSME Council and the collaboration with the Bank of Industry to unveil a N75 billion, 9% interest loan accessible to Nigerian MSMEs starting January 2024. This initiative aims to create a more conducive and enabling business environment.
Shettima expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s commitment to taking action and implementing strategies to create opportunities for Nigerian businesses. He congratulated the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, and the leadership of SMEDAN for their dedication to transforming concepts into tangible actions.
Dr. Uzoka-Anite outlined other government initiatives focused on building capacity and connecting MSMEs to domestic and international markets. The completion and inauguration of the new SMEDAN Complex underscore the administration’s commitment to MSME development.
The event featured an exhibition by small businesses showcasing their products and was attended by dignitaries including senators, ministers, and heads of government agencies.