Bauchi Gov pledges support for SME development, job ceation initiatives

Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir, assured that his administration will support the Commissioner of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Honourable Sadiq Hamisu Shira, to consolidate the existing partnership between the state government and SMEDAN on the targeted programmes that will foster job creation, reduce poverty, and address youth restiveness.

The Governor applauded the Commissioner for his tireless efforts and constant consultation with critical stakeholders for the advancement and overall development of SMEs in the state.

Bala Mohammed made the commendation when he received, in the audience, the Director-General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDA), Mr Charles Odii, at the Bauchi State Government lodge in Abuja.

According to the governor, small and medium enterprises are important for economic growth and development, regional development, flexibility, social impact, and the diversification of the economy.

Bala Mohammed also highlighted that their contributions are vital for a thriving and resilient economy, thus making SMEs a key component of sustainable and inclusive economic development.

He used the medium to extend an invitation to SMEDAN and other enterprise organisations to attend a zonal trade fair scheduled to be held in Bauchi in the month of February 2024.

On his part, the Director-General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Charles Odii, appreciated the efforts of the Bauchi Governor in strengthening SMEs’ activities by providing them with technical and financial services to enhance their operations.

To this end, the SMEDAN DG acknowledged the empowerment programme launched by the governor across the local government areas of Bauchi and assured his agency’s support for more interventions in the state for the benefit of the citizens aimed at tackling poverty and unemployment.

The Commissioner for Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Hon. Sadiq Hamisu Shira, explained on his recent visit to the SMEDAN DG that it was part of his ministry’s consultation with critical partners for the development of SMEs in the state.

Hamisu Shira reiterated his unwavering commitment to supporting the administration of Governor Bala Mohammed to implement all its policies and programmes on SMEs for economic growth and development.