MSME Awards Reflect Tinubu’s Commitment To Economic Growth – Minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described the 2026 National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Awards as a strong demonstration of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to positioning small businesses as the backbone of Nigeria’s economic growth under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking with journalists after the awards ceremony in Abuja, the minister said the recognition of outstanding entrepreneurs underscores the Federal Government’s resolve to create an enabling environment for businesses to flourish, generate employment and drive sustainable economic development.

Idris said many of the award recipients attributed their achievements to the administration’s supportive policies, noting that the government’s commitment has strengthened confidence within the MSME sector.

“The awards are a clear indication of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to repositioning MSMEs as the foundation of Nigeria’s economic prosperity. The beneficiaries have dedicated their achievements to Mr. President and the Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing confidence that with the continued support of the administration, Nigeria is firmly on the path to greater prosperity,” he said.

Reacting to his own recognition for supporting MSME development and job creation, the Minister dedicated the award to the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, its agencies and members of staff.

He explained that the ministry remains committed to informing Nigerians about government policies and programmes, particularly initiatives designed to empower entrepreneurs and expand economic opportunities.

“This recognition is not for me alone. It belongs to the Ministry, its agencies and our hardworking staff who continue to communicate government initiatives and enlighten Nigerians on the opportunities available through MSME development. Our responsibility is to ensure that citizens understand the value of these programmes and appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to reposition the country for the benefit of all Nigerians,” he stated.

The minister also commended the Federal Government’s disbursement of more than ₦1 billion in grants to over 1,000 beneficiaries, describing the initiative as a strategic intervention to strengthen small businesses and promote grassroots economic development.

According to him, the decision to replace material gifts with direct financial grants reflects the administration’s practical approach to empowering entrepreneurs with working capital to expand their businesses and create jobs.

“The president believes that providing cash support will enable beneficiaries to reinvest in their enterprises, grow their businesses and contribute more meaningfully to the nation’s economy. It is a new direction that will strengthen entrepreneurship and deepen grassroots economic development,” he added.

Earlier, Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, described the National MSME Awards as a key component of the Tinubu administration’s efforts to promote entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth.

He announced a major policy shift under the Renewed Hope Agenda, replacing traditional prizes such as cars, shops and houses with business grants ranging from ₦500,000 to ₦3 million to provide entrepreneurs with the working capital needed to grow their enterprises.

“In today’s economic realities, what a growing business needs most is working capital. This strategic financial support will help beneficiaries reduce operating costs, purchase raw materials, scale production and create lasting jobs for our growing population,” he said.

He congratulated the award recipients and urged them to use the grants responsibly by expanding their businesses, mentoring emerging entrepreneurs and creating employment opportunities.

Shettima also assured Nigerian entrepreneurs that the Federal Government, in collaboration with state governments and the private sector, would continue to foster an environment where innovation is rewarded, small businesses thrive and economic prosperity is shared across the country.