Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s N200 billion Presidential Intervention Fund and Loans Scheme for SSMEs.
This statement was made during a town hall meeting and sensitization event for the N200 billion Presidential Intervention Fund and Loans Scheme for SSMEs, organized by the Federal Government in collaboration with the Bank of Industry, held in Kaduna on Tuesday.
The governor was represented by his Special Adviser on Economic Matters, Mr. Ibrahim Muhammad.
Governor Sani highlighted that the fund, which includes the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme and loan options for MSMEs, aims to strengthen Nigeria’s economy by empowering local entrepreneurs.
“This massive presidential initiative is proof that President Tinubu is a listening leader,” he stated, adding, “Through these stimulus packages, small businesses and manufacturing enterprises will be revitalized, significantly benefiting both sub-national economies and Nigeria as a whole.”
Emphasizing the crucial role of MSMEs in creating jobs, fostering innovation, and building economic resilience, Sani expressed Kaduna State’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment.
He praised the timing of the fund, describing it as a vital boost for Kaduna’s economy, job creation, and entrepreneurial growth. He also urged stakeholders to promote the initiative to maximize its benefits.
Several beneficiaries shared their stories at the event, expressing gratitude for the grant’s transformative impact on their lives and businesses.
Mrs. Caroline Bala, one of the recipients, said the financial assistance enabled her to start a soya milk business after losing her previous job.
She shared that her business now earns her between 10,000 to 15,000 Naira daily. She encouraged the organizers to maintain the initiative, calling it a life-changing opportunity for deserving citizens.
Mr. Albert Ibrahim, another beneficiary, said he used the grant to purchase herbicides for his farm, which led to a successful harvest. He expressed hope that others would also get the chance to benefit from the scheme.
Similarly, Summayya Ibrahim thanked the government, stating that she hopes for continued support to expand opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Muktar Aliyu, a cartoonist, mentioned that he used his grant to acquire specialized software, which significantly improved his creative work. He expressed deep appreciation for the scheme, noting the positive impact it had on his career.
Additionally, Mrs. Joy Oghiadomhe from the Bank of Industry outlined the eligibility criteria for both the grant and loan schemes. She emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling economic challenges through MSMEs, which are seen as a vital sector for growth and development.
Over 100 beneficiaries in Kaduna received grants through this initiative, marking a significant step in the Federal Government’s efforts to support small and medium enterprises across the nation.