President Bola Tinubu has declared that Nigerians have no reason to be poor. He stressed his administration’s firm commitment to supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide.
Speaking at the 8th Expanded National MSME Clinic in Calabar on Wednesday, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, pointed to Nigeria’s vast human and natural resources. According to him, these resources can drive lasting national prosperity.
Cross River’s Strategic Role in Agriculture and Industry
Tinubu explained that Cross River’s fertile soil makes it possible to grow almost any crop. Moreover, the Federal Government plans to plant 100 million oil palm trees, with the state expected to play a leading role.
In addition, he noted that his government has, since taking office, worked to improve access to capital. Furthermore, it will continue to support innovative ventures that can shape the future of work, skills, and industry.
Boosting Digital Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
The president also praised Cross River’s newly established communication and technology hub for MSMEs. Notably, he described the facility as aligned with global digital trends.
“The hub will provide affordable high-speed internet, modern equipment, and collaborative spaces for learning,” he said. As a result, rural traders in Ikom, furniture makers in Calabar, and fashion designers in Ogoja, Ugep, or Odukpani can now access wider markets.
He emphasized that the Renewed Hope Agenda goes beyond giving loans or grants. Instead, it focuses on building an ecosystem that encourages creativity, provides infrastructure, and sustains growth.
Collaboration Between Federal and State Governments
Governor Bassey Otu described the MSME Clinic as a joint initiative between Cross River State and the Federal Government. According to him, the aim is to strengthen entrepreneurship and boost the state’s economy.
Through the Micro Finance and Enterprise Development Agency, Otu said, the state has trained over 3,500 entrepreneurs. Therefore, he believes that fully harnessed MSMEs can improve living standards and transform the economy.
BOI’s Financial Support for Local Enterprises
Pius Neji, Head of the Bank of Industry (BOI) in Cross River, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to entrepreneurs. In fact, he revealed that the BOI had disbursed ₦260 million to MSMEs, focusing on rural businesses.
“Cross River has what it takes to drive Nigeria’s industrial growth,” Neji said. Consequently, he believes the state’s progress can help take the country to the next level.
