President Bola Tinubu has restated his administration’s determination to foster the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria, describing them as critical to unlocking the nation’s economic potential.
Speaking at the 8th edition of the Expanded National MSME Clinic in Calabar on Wednesday, the president, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said Nigeria possesses the human capital and natural endowments necessary to eradicate poverty.
“There is no justifiable reason for Nigerians to remain poor,” he said. “Our country is blessed with abundant resources, and it is up to us to harness them effectively.”
He noted that Cross River State, in particular, holds enormous agricultural potential, capable of cultivating nearly every crop due to its fertile land. He further disclosed that the Federal Government is preparing to plant 100 million oil palm trees, with Cross River well-positioned to lead in the initiative.
President Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s pledge to facilitate access to capital for entrepreneurs and support ventures that will shape the future of work, skills, and industry.
Commending the state government’s efforts, he lauded the establishment of a modern communication and technology hub designed to serve MSMEs.
“This is a strategic step that places Cross River in alignment with emerging trends in digital technology,” he said. “The hub will offer MSMEs affordable access to high-speed internet, cutting-edge equipment, and a collaborative environment for learning and innovation.”
He added that the digital economy provides space for diverse participants across the state — from the market woman in Ikom to the furniture maker in Calabar and the fashion designer in Ogoja, Ugep or Odukpani.
“My administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda is firmly anchored on creating conditions where MSMEs can flourish. We are committed not only to providing loans or grants but also to building an enabling ecosystem — one that strengthens infrastructure and fuels the creativity of entrepreneurs,” Tinubu said.
Governor Bassey Otu described the clinic as a strategic partnership between the Cross River State Government and the Federal Government, aimed at empowering citizens through enterprise and stimulating the state’s economy.
According to him, through the Micro Finance and Enterprise Development Agency, the state has trained more than 3,500 entrepreneurs across various sectors, equipping them with vital skills to drive sustainable development.
“The benefits of supporting MSMEs are immense. With a united effort, they can significantly improve the quality of life for our people,” the governor said.
He also commended President Tinubu’s vision, pledging the state government’s continued cooperation to achieve the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Also speaking at the event, Mr Pius Neji, Head of the Bank of Industry (BOI) in Cross River, described the institution as a committed ally to entrepreneurs, especially those in rural communities.
He noted that the BOI has so far disbursed around N260 million to MSMEs across the state.
“Cross River is fertile ground for entrepreneurship. Its industrial development holds the potential to propel Nigeria’s economic transformation,” Neji stated.
