The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has reaffirmed his commitment to the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the state.
During his speech at the 2022 MSMEs Opportunity Fair, Governor Obaseki highlighted the efforts of the Edo State Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Cooperatives, as well as the Edo State Skills Development Agency (EdoJobs), in providing opportunities for skills acquisition and self-employment.
The fair, organized by the Small Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) in partnership with the Edo State Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Cooperatives, took place in Benin City from September 7 to September 10.
Represented by the Commissioner of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, Afishetu Braimoh, Governor Obaseki applauded the collaborative efforts between the state’s Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives and the Skills Development Agency, which have increased opportunities for MSMEs in Edo State. These initiatives have empowered youths to acquire skills and become self-employed, ultimately fostering the growth of enterprises across various sectors of the state’s economy.
Governor Obaseki emphasized the significant impact of these efforts, as they have led to the creation of over 300,000 jobs in Edo State since 2016. These job opportunities span a wide range of sectors, including technology, agriculture, power, and fashion design, among others.
Recognizing MSMEs as the driving force behind a thriving economy and the largest employers of labor, Governor Obaseki stated that his administration has implemented various programs and initiatives to ensure the success of MSMEs in Edo State. The government has actively facilitated the disbursement of credit facilities to MSMEs in key focus areas, ensuring the sustainability and growth of businesses.
The Governor encouraged participating MSMEs at the fair to capitalize on the opportunity to showcase their products, services, and innovations. He urged them to leverage the platform provided to expand their businesses and market themselves effectively.
The event also featured speeches from notable speakers, including the State Coordinator of GIZ, Ms. Blessing Oluwatosin Ajimoti, and Mr. Moshood Olewole, Head of SME sales. These experts emphasized the importance of expanding market access for Nigerian MSMEs and the need for strategic solutions to address the challenges related to demand, supply, and market information.
The four-day MSMEs Opportunity Fair served as a platform for entrepreneurs to network, exhibit their products, and explore both local and international market opportunities. It showcased the commitment of the Edo State Government, in collaboration with SMEDAN, to support the growth and prosperity of MSMEs in the region.
