In a strategic effort to enhance export opportunities for locally made products, the Cross River Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA) has deepened its collaboration with the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM). The high-level meeting, held in Calabar, underscores a shared commitment to empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and strengthening the state’s economy.
The meeting followed NEXIM’s active participation in the recent International Women’s Day celebration, marking a progressive partnership between the two institutions.
Strengthening MSME Growth and Export Potential
Speaking at the event, MEDA Director-General Great Ogban outlined the agency’s ambitious initiatives to bolster MSME development and expand market access for locally produced goods. He emphasized MEDA’s goal of preparing 1,000 made-in-Cross River products for export, aligning with Governor Bassey Otu’s economic vision of “One MSME per Home” and “One Local Government, One Product” (OLOP). These initiatives aim to promote self-sufficiency and economic diversification across the state’s 18 local government areas.
NEXIM’s Commitment to MSME Empowerment
Welcoming the delegation, Soni A. Oseghale, Head of NEXIM’s Calabar Regional Office, praised MEDA’s dedication to fostering business growth. He reaffirmed NEXIM’s support for MSMEs through its strategic focus on the “MASS” sectors—Manufacturing, Agro-processing, Solid minerals, and Services.
Oseghale also highlighted key initiatives designed to empower women and youth in the non-oil export value chain, including:
- Women and Youth Export Facility (WAYEF) – Supporting women and young entrepreneurs in global trade.
- Produce, Add Value, and Export (PAVE) – Encouraging value addition to raw materials before export.
- Women in Export Program – A forthcoming initiative aimed at increasing female participation in international markets.
A Pathway to Global Market Access
The meeting concluded with NEXIM pledging its continued support in helping Cross River’s MSMEs access broader market opportunities. With strengthened partnerships and well-structured initiatives, local businesses in Cross River are poised to thrive on the global stage, unlocking new economic possibilities for the state.
This collaboration marks a crucial step toward positioning Cross River as a key player in Nigeria’s non-oil export industry, ensuring sustainable economic growth and increased opportunities for small businesses.
