President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a glowing tribute to his Special Adviser on Job Creation and MSMEs, Mr. Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, on the occasion of his birthday. In a statement released by the Presidency, Tinubu hailed the aide as a pivotal figure in the administration’s drive to turn small businesses into the primary engine of the Nigerian economy.
The “478,000” Milestone The President didn’t just offer well-wishes; he used the occasion to highlight the tangible economic impact led by Adekunle-Johnson’s office. Key achievements mentioned include:
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Job Creation: Programs under his supervision have collectively generated approximately 478,000 jobs across the federation.
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Infrastructure for Small Business: The successful facilitation of 18 Shared Facility Hubs nationwide—modern workspaces where small business owners can access expensive equipment and technology they otherwise couldn’t afford.
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The MSME Clinics: Leading the “Expanded National MSME Clinics” to various states, bringing government regulatory agencies directly to the doorstep of local entrepreneurs.
Rewarding Excellence President Tinubu also credited his adviser with elevating the National MSME Awards, transforming it into a high-prestige platform that rewards innovation and hard work. By showcasing these success stories, the administration aims to prove that “excellence is possible” within the Nigerian small business market, despite macroeconomic headwinds.
The “Backbone” Philosophy Reiterating his stance that MSMEs are the “backbone of Nigeria’s economy,” the President expressed total confidence in Adekunle-Johnson’s ability to continue expanding opportunities for young Nigerians. The birthday message serves as a strong endorsement of the current MSME policy direction, signaling that the administration intends to double down on its “Shared Hubs” and “Clinic” models to drive inclusive growth.
