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Vice President Kashim Shettima
Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, on Tuesday, described Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises as the lifeline of the nation’s economy.
Shettima made this statement in Makurdi during the inauguration of the Benue MSME fashion hub, which is expected to create 48,000 jobs for youths.
The Vice President, represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Vice President, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, emphasised that MSMEs are a strong pillar of stability for the economy.
He said, “It is evident that it will be impossible to grow Nigeria’s economy if MSMEs do not remain a top priority.”
Shettima noted that the Federal Government’s intervention is designed to foster a conducive environment through MSMEs.
He added, “MSMEs are the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, accounting for 96 per cent of business activities and contributing over 45 per cent to our economy.
“Without them, over 80 per cent of Nigeria’s workforce would be without a job.”
While stating that fashion hubs and ICT centres are to be established in all states of the federation, the Vice President said that out of the five hubs that have been inaugurated, the Benue fashion hub remains one of the largest.
He added that the Benue hub has over 200 production machines and 100 ICT units.
According to the Vice President, the machines have the capacity to produce military and school uniforms, both for the state and beyond.
“We are confident that this hub is of global standard, and it is estimated that it will provide 48,000 jobs,” the Vice President said.
In his speech, the State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, who applauded the Federal Government for the initiative, expressed confidence that it will serve as a catalyst for growth and development, not only in the state but across the entire Middle Belt region.
“We are committed to ensuring that the project fulfils its purpose of empowering our people and contributing to the socio-economic transformation of our state,” he said.
Alia appreciated the donation of 70 computers to power the ICT section of the hub, along with various sewing and weaving machines, the 100KVA generator, and other equipment.
