Beneficiaries of the Federal Government Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have commended the government for such an initiative, which they said has positively changed their lives.
Mrs Caroline Bala, one of the recent beneficiaries of the federal government grant, expressed gratitude for the financial grant she received, adding that it enabled her to start a soya milk business after she lost her previous job.
Bala said that her business has been thriving, with daily earnings between 10,000 and 15,000 Naira, which has helped her family and enabled her to reach out to other people.
While commending the federal government, she appealed for the initiative‘s continuation and ensured that deserving citizens continue to benefit from the grant, which she described as a life-changing opportunity.
Another beneficiary, Mr Albert Ibrahim, said he used the grant to purchase herbicides for his farm, which helped produce a bountiful harvest. He expressed hope that others would also benefit from the scheme.
Similarly, Summayya Ibrahim commended the government for the support, adding that she looks forward to more assistance to enable broader outreach to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Muktar Aliyu, a cartoonist, said he used his grant to purchase specialised software that has enhanced his creative work. He added that the grant has dramatically impacted his career.
The beneficiaries testified during a town hall meeting and sensitisation event for the N200 billion Presidential Intervention Fund.
Earlier, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, represented by his Special Adviser on Economic Matters, Mr. Ibrahim Muhammad, highlighted the fund‘s role in supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and manufacturing businesses across Nigeria.
He said the fund, which includes the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme and loan options for MSMEs, is designed to bolster Nigeria’s economy by empowering local entrepreneurs.
This massive presidential initiative is proof that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a listening leader,“ Muhammad stated.
Through these stimulus packages, small businesses and manufacturing enterprises will be revitalised, significantly benefiting both sub-national economies and Nigeria.“
He also emphasised the importance of MSMEs in driving job creation, innovation, and economic resilience, noting that Kaduna’s government is committed to fostering a supportive business environment.
The Governor praised the timing of the fund, calling it a valuable support for Kaduna State’s ongoing efforts to boost the local economy, create jobs, and encourage entrepreneurial growth.
He urged all stakeholders to spread awareness of the initiative to maximise its impact.
Also, Mrs Joy Oghiadomhe of the Bank of Industry (BOI) outlined the eligibility criteria for both the grant and loan schemes, emphasising the administration‘s intent to tackle economic challenges through MSMEs as a key development sector. At least 100 persons from Kaduna are beneficiaries of the federal government MSMEs grant.
