The Federal Government, in collaboration with the Cross River State Government, has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering small businesses by hosting the 8th Expanded National MSME Clinic in Calabar.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, inaugurated a new ICT Hub for MSMEs at the State Library Complex. The facility is designed to provide entrepreneurs with access to modern digital tools, training, and resources that can enhance productivity and innovation.
Highlighting the government’s commitment, Shettima noted that the MSME Clinics serve as a direct link between entrepreneurs and government support systems. He further announced ₦250,000 unconditional grants for outstanding businesses that showcased their products and services at the clinic.
Governor Bassey Otu assured participants that his administration remains dedicated to creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurship. He revealed that through the Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (CRSMEDA), more than 3,500 entrepreneurs have already been trained and supported to scale their businesses.
The Chief Executive Officer of CRSMEDA, Great Ogban, expressed optimism about the long-term impact of the initiative, stating:
“This clinic fosters innovation and strengthens the entrepreneurial ecosystem, which is vital for sustainable economic development.”
Other federal officials, including the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, and Special Adviser Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, also reiterated the government’s resolve to address the challenges faced by small businesses nationwide.
Vice President Shettima was joined at the event by Charles Odii, Director-General and CEO of the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), along with other senior government functionaries.
