Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has ended a one-day State visit to Enugu, Southeast Nigeria, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as part of its strategy for socio-economic growth and development.
Senator Shettima gave this assurance while unveiling the 5th Expanded National MSME Clinic on Thursday.
This is the fourth official visit of Vice President Shettima to Enugu State and his second in this 2024, following his February 26 visit when he launched the Federal Government’s Light Up Southeast Initiative.
The latest visit the Vice President is packed with activities begininng with the commissioning of the Enugu Fashion and Garment Hub, designed to support the thriving fashion industry in the State.
Shortly after, Shettima moved to the Banquet Hall of the Old Governor’s Lodge in the city, to unveil the 5th Expanded National MSME Clinic.
The Federal Government initiative is geared towards closing the gap between government and SMEs, offering resources and support to boost their growth.
At the event, the Vice President announced a N150,000 grant for outstanding MSMEs in the State.
Addressing the broader challenges of the Southeast region, Shettima identified infrastructural deficiencies as a major obstacle and called for stronger partnerships between region’s State governments and the Federal government to develop practical solutions.
The host Governor Peter Mbah, recognizing the important role of MSMEs in the State’s economic development, expressed optimism that the MSME Clinic would strengthen the sector.
Afterward, the Vice President, along with Governor Mbah, inspected the construction site of the International Conference Centre – an important infrastructure project in Enugu State, which also houses other key State assets, including a 5-star hotel.
The visit concluded at the Government House, where Shettima toured the Command and Control Centre, which showcases the State’s modern security technology, as well as the Government House Digital Museum, a striking display of Enugu’s rich heritage.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
