The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has empowered 55 entrepreneurs in Akwa Ibom with starter packs aimed at enhancing their businesses. This initiative is part of the National Business Skills Development Initiative, focusing on training participants in areas such as leatherworks, food processing, digital marketing, and virtual assistance.
Charles Odii, the Director-General of SMEDAN, highlighted the significance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the nation’s economy, emphasizing their crucial role in job creation. The training program aims to improve business management practices, service provision, and access to finance for the participating entrepreneurs.
Odii expressed the commitment of the Federal Government to address the challenges faced by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) comprehensively. He reiterated SMEDAN’s dedication to supporting entrepreneurs across the country, contributing to job creation, wealth generation, and poverty alleviation.
Monday Ewans, the Director of Enterprise Development and Promotion, emphasized that the training program targets young entrepreneurs and women. He urged beneficiaries of SMEDAN’s empowerment packs to utilize the opportunities provided to create employment opportunities and wealth.
Dr. John Etim, the Commissioner for Trade and Investment in Akwa Ibom, shared insights into the state government’s policy initiatives to promote the growth of medium and small-scale businesses. He mentioned collaboration with the Bank of Industry to facilitate easy access to loans for small-scale business operators.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Mr. Daniel Esetang expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and SMEDAN for their consistent support of MSME operators. Esetang, a shoe and leather product designer, highlighted inadequate electricity supply as a major challenge for medium and small-scale businesses in the state. He emphasized the impact of rising electricity costs due to the removal of fuel subsidies on businesses in the region.
