The Federal Government has awarded N150,000 grants to exceptional Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Jigawa, as announced by Vice-President Kashim Shettima. The grants were unveiled during the 4th edition of the Expanded National MSME Clinic held in Dutse, Jigawa.
The Expanded National MSME Clinics are part of the government's strategy to ease business operations across Nigeria, offering immediate solutions to the challenges faced by MSMEs. Previous editions were held in Benue, Ogun, and Ekiti States earlier this year.
Vice-President Shettima emphasized that the grant is a non-repayable financial support aimed at bolstering the nation's MSMEs. He highlighted the sector's significance, noting that MSMEs account for 96% of all businesses in Nigeria and contribute over 45% to the country's GDP, providing livelihoods for 80% of the workforce.
Shettima assured the business owners that the government remains committed to supporting them through various initiatives, including the establishment of MSME clinics that act as incubators and offer alternative financing options.
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa expressed gratitude to the federal government for its continuous support through the MSME Clinics and other projects. He encouraged local business owners to leverage the services offered by these clinics, describing them as a unique opportunity for growth and development in the region.
The event also featured the inspection of MSME exhibition pavilions, the commissioning of the Jigawa Retail Empowerment Shops, a solar-powered irrigation farm, and the distribution of agricultural inputs under the NG-CARES Fadama Programme. Additionally, a 120KVA Solar Plant was inaugurated at the Dutse Ultra Modern Market, ensuring a minimum of eight hours of electricity daily during market hours.
