Akinlabi Emmanuel
The Kaduna State Government has announced its intention to provide grants to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) this year. Mrs. Patience Fakai, the Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology in the state, made this disclosure on Monday in Kaduna.
Fakai clarified that the Kaduna State Enterprise Development Agency, under the auspices of the Ministry, would extend support to MSMEs across all 23 local government areas in the state.
She said, “We have started working on the various grants that will come on board. But first and foremost, the governor wants to have proper data on all the SMEs in the state.
“It is critical so that everybody can be carried along. That is what we have been working on in the past few weeks so we can have accurate data”.
She added that the ministry would educate and sensitize citizens on how to register their businesses and access grants to ensure financial stability.
The state governor had begun the construction of three skill acquisition cities in Igabi, Soba, and Zangon Kataf, covering the three senatorial zones.
”The cities when completed, would provide room for youths and women to acquire various vocational skills that would empower them.
“I believe that will help the economy, as it will help youths to be gainfully employed and also I’m sure it will help to stem the rate of insecurity.
“When these youths are engaged, they would be occupied and they would not have time to engage in social vices.”
Regarding tourism, the commissioner stated that the ministry is actively enhancing the sector by exploring historical sites, including Kagoro Hills, Nok Museum, and Queen Amina Historical Site.
She further mentioned that efforts are underway to formulate a tourism policy, providing guidance and instilling confidence among tourists and investors. Additionally, there are plans to grade and classify hotels.
The commissioner urged the citizens of the state to collaborate in moving the state forward, emphasizing that the governor is diligently working towards elevating the state to greater heights.
(NAN)
