By Admin
Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) to drive economic growth, job creation and poverty reduction.
Ododo made the pledge during the distribution of Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) certificates and the launch of the SMEs Business Support Cooperative on Monday in Lokoja.
The programme was organised by the Kogi Enterprise Development Agency (KEDA).
Ododo who was represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, described the initiative as a major step towards building an inclusive economy driven by innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Small and medium enterprises remain the backbone of every thriving economy across the world. They account for the majority of businesses, create employment, stimulate innovation and contribute significantly to economic growth,” he said.
According to him, the CAC certificates will provide beneficiaries with legal recognition, enabling access to credit facilities, government interventions, investment opportunities and wider markets.
Ododo described the SMEs Business Support Cooperative as a landmark initiative that would improve entrepreneurs’ access to finance, business advisory services, capacity building and market opportunities.
He urged beneficiaries to maximise the opportunities by operating with integrity, maintaining proper records, paying taxes and creating employment opportunities.
The governor assured youths and women-owned businesses of continued government support through policies encouraging investment, improved infrastructure and stronger institutions.
He commended KEDA for initiating programmes that empower entrepreneurs and strengthen the state’s economic base.
Ododo also appreciated the Corporate Affairs Commission, development partners, financial institutions and other stakeholders for supporting enterprise development in Kogi.
Earlier, KEDA Managing Director, Alhaji Muhammed Okeji, described the programme as another milestone in government’s efforts to promote entrepreneurship, create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
Okeji commended Ododo for his sustained support for enterprise development across the state.
He said business registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission would provide beneficiaries greater access to financing, investment opportunities and government interventions.
He added that the SMEs Business Support Cooperative would provide entrepreneurs with funding, business support and capacity-building programmes.
Okeji reaffirmed KEDA’s commitment to making Kogi a hub for enterprise and innovation.
He urged beneficiaries to utilise the opportunities provided to build sustainable businesses and create more jobs.
Olajide Onize, a beneficiary shared that she has been doing her business for 3 years. This certificate will improve her foodstuff business and help her gain wider reach.
Also sharing her excitement, Mariam Abu, a drinks vendor said “my business can grow and I can even employ people.”
Highlight of the event was the presentation of cheques of N500,000 to 6 beneficiaries as grant to boost their businesses.
Present at this event were government officials, representatives from the banking sector and development partners.
