By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The federal government on Tuesday commissioned an ultra-modern fashion hub for MSMEs and the refurbished Asero Adire market, all in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The Vice President, Mr Kashim Shettima, who performed the commissioning during the second edition of the Expanded National MSME Clinics in the state capital, said it was part of the efforts of the national government to support small business owners in the country.
Mr Shettima also announced the handover of 200 newly refurbished stores for the use of 400 entrepreneurs at the popular Asero Adire market in Abeokuta, saying the beneficiaries will use the stores free of charge for one year, after which they will be charged discounted rates for the use of the facilities.
According to him, this gesture is part of efforts by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to support small businesses by providing an enabling environment for them to thrive.
“The National MSME Clinics serve as a bridge between us—between the people and the government. They are designed to bring the government near the people by convening all regulatory agencies under one roof.
“This journey further reinforces my conviction that our paramount responsibility as a government is to persist in crafting an enabling environment that allows these small businesses not only to thrive but also to expand their horizons,” the VP was quoted as saying in a statement issued by his spokesman, Mr Stanley Nkwocha.
He noted that the overall objective of the government is to “foster an ecosystem where innovation flourishes, where the entrepreneurial spirit of Nigeria shines brightly on the global stage, and where our collaborations yield immense dividends.”
He expressed confidence that with little support, MSMEs across the country can deploy their talents, creativity and boundless energy to build more viable enterprises.
In his remarks, the Governor of Ogun State, Mr Dapo Abiodun, thanked the federal government for the fashion hub and the refurbishing of the Adire market.
He also outlined innovations by the state government in creating an enabling environment for small businesses, leveraging technology and introducing grant schemes for them.
