Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the Federal Government’s unwavering support for Kano’s role as a driving force in Nigeria’s economic development.
At the opening of the 46th Kano International Trade Fair on Tuesday, with the theme “Empowering SMEs for Sustainable Development,” Shettima highlighted the central role small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play in strengthening the national economy. Represented by his Special Assistant on Technical Matters, Dr. Ibrahim Nagwandu, the Vice President pointed out that SMEs now account for 84% of the national workforce and contribute nearly 50% to Nigeria’s GDP.
“These businesses are vital to our economic diversification, poverty reduction, and job creation,” Shettima said. “They also supply goods and services to larger corporations, anchoring the wider economy.”
Shettima emphasized that empowering the SME sector is a cornerstone of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He outlined key government initiatives designed to boost SME growth, including the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Fund (MSMEDF), the Agri-Business/SME Investment Scheme (AGSMEIS), and the Export Expansion Grant (EEG).
“These policies focus on making finance accessible, promoting capacity building, and fostering a business-friendly environment to help SMEs thrive,” he explained. “It’s a pivotal moment for MSMEs to innovate, scale up, and tap into export markets.”
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by Commissioner for Commerce, Mines, Agriculture, and Industry, Alhaji Shehu Wada Sagagi, reiterated the state government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for business growth. He highlighted Kano’s long-standing position as a key commercial hub, connecting trade routes across the Sahel and sub-Saharan Africa.
The governor also commended the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (KACCIMA) for organizing the fair, describing it as a critical platform for collaboration between business leaders, investors, and policymakers.
“We continue to support our SMEs because we understand their role in sustainable development,” Governor Yusuf concluded. “Innovation and scaling up are key to unlocking new opportunities for our entrepreneurs.”
