By Peter Amine
The Plateau Government, in partnership with the German International Corporation (GIZ), has launched the Micro, Small, and Media Enterprises (MSMEs) Policy to address MSMEs challenges and boost the state’s economy.
Gov Caleb Mutfwang, who unveiled the policy on Tuesday in Jos, said that the feat marks not only a first step for the state’s growth, but a pioneering effort in Nigeria.
Represented by Mr Samuel Jatau, Secretary to the Government of the State, Mutfwang said that as the first state to domesticate this policy, Plateau is setting a precedence for economic innovation and empowerment.
The governor said that he was aware of the vital role that MSMEs play in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and fostering innovation.
He stated that MSMEs were the heartbeat of the state local economy, and their success was critical to the overall prosperity of Plateau.
Mutfwang stated that the launch of the MSME Policy was a testament to our commitment to creating a conducive environment for these enterprises to thrive.
“This policy is designed to address the unique challenges faced by MSMEs and to unlock their full potential, thereby significantly contributing to the socio-economic development of Plateau.
“The MSME Policy we are launching today is a comprehensive framework that includes several key initiatives such as enhanced access to finance, capacity building, and infrastructure development to support MSMEs.
“Others include regulatory ease of doing business, creation of market access for MSMEs, as well as encouraging adoption of innovative practices and leveraging technology, which are central to our policy.
“These initiatives are designed to create a supportive ecosystem that nurtures the growth and sustainability of MSMEs on the Plateau.
“In addition to the MSME policy, the Plateau Government has taken further steps to foster a thriving business environment by also inaugurating the Ease of Doing Business Council, which includes private and public sector stakeholders as members,” he added.
According to him, the council is tasked with, among other things, identifying and addressing barriers to business operations, streamlining regulatory processes, and enhancing the overall business climate in the state.
Mutfwang added that the initiative had led to improved coordination among government entities, ensuring that businesses can navigate regulatory requirements more efficiently, ensuring streamlined processes, and ensuring a robust feed mechanism.
The governor stressed that the council provided a platform for business owners to voice their concerns and receive timely resolutions, fostering a more responsive and supportive government.
He pointed out that the policy would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts and support of several key stakeholders, most especially GIZ SEDIN.
Mutfwang stated that their esteemed partners at GIZ Sedin have been instrumental in the development of this policy.
The General Manager, Plateau Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (PLASMIDA), Mr Bomkam Wuyep, commended the resilience and tenacity of our MSMEs on the Plateau.
Wuyep said that their entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and perseverance were the lifeblood of our economy.
The D-G added that the policy was a testament to their hard work and a commitment to providing them with the support and opportunities they need to flourish.
He emphasised that policy represents stakeholders collective resolve to build a more prosperous and sustainable future for all and urged the people to harness the full potential of this policy to drive growth, create jobs, and enhance the quality of life for our people.
Mr Akinropo Omoware, GIZ Head of Component, said that one of the biggest challenges for Nigeria is that it runs on short terms.
Omoware said that Nigerians do not plan on long terms; they plan based on political circles, hence the many abandoned projects.
He said that the MSMEs policy was a long-term plan deliberately designed to boost and sustain private businesses in the state.
“We are not at the finish line; after the launch of the policy today, the next step is implementation. If not implemented, we will achieve nothing.
“We need to come back here in the next year and assess to see whether these efforts were successful.
“In the policy, we identified what we needed to achieve in the next year, and we will keep tabs to ensure that it is achieved.
“This plan was developed by all MSMEs stakeholders, and the participants must own a copy and ensure its implementation,” he said.
Mr Dauda Gashi, Executive Director, Plateau Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture (PLACCIMA), said in a goodwill message that the organised private sector would make good use of the policy.
Gashi appreciated Plateau and GIZ for their support of the private sector.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the launch included a technical session with group discussions on the implementation strategies of the policy.
The aim of the group discussions was to develop an implementation plan. NAN
