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Yemi Mobolade Makes History as the First Elected Black Mayor of US Colorado Springs, Breaking 45-Year Streak Unaffiliated with the Republican Party

Yemi Mobolade Makes History as the First Elected Black Mayor of US Colorado Springs, Breaking 45-Year Streak Unaffiliated with the Republican Party

 

Yemi Mobolade, a native of Lagos, Nigeria, has etched his name in history by becoming the 42nd Elected Mayor of Colorado Springs and the first Black mayor in the city’s history. His groundbreaking victory also marks the end of a 45-year streak unaffiliated with the Republican Party, signaling a significant political shift in the conservative stronghold.

Mobolade’s journey from Lagos to the historic achievement of being Colorado Springs’ first Black mayor has captured the attention of the community and beyond. His victory, as an independent candidate with no allegiance to either the Democratic or Republican Party, underscores the changing political landscape in the region.No alt text provided for this image

Described by Colorado Public Radio as a political newcomer who took center stage, Mobolade’s success sent shockwaves through Colorado Springs, challenging the traditional conservative leanings that have characterized the city for decades.

“I am deeply honored to have the trust and support of the people of Colorado Springs,” expressed Yemi Mobolade. “My election as the first Black mayor unaffiliated with the Republican Party reflects a new chapter in our city’s history, and I am committed to serving all residents with dedication and inclusivity.”

The significance of Mobolade’s victory goes beyond local politics, resonating with the broader narrative of diversity and representation. His success serves as an inspiration for aspiring leaders and symbolizes the potential for positive change in traditionally conservative strongholds.

As Yemi Mobolade assumes the role of Mayor, he brings a fresh perspective and a commitment to unity and progress. His journey from Lagos to leading a major U.S. city exemplifies the spirit of diversity and opportunity that defines the American experience.

 

“I am deeply honored to have the trust and support of the people of Colorado Springs,” expressed Yemi Mobolade. “My election as the first Black mayor unaffiliated with the Republican Party reflects a new chapter in our city’s history, and I am committed to serving all residents with dedication and inclusivity.”

Tanta Innovative Guides Nigerian Businesses Through Cross-Border Data Transfer Complexities

Tanta Innovative Guides Nigerian Businesses Through Cross-Border Data Transfer Complexities

 

 

In today’s digitally interconnected world, individuals and organizations often find themselves managing data across international borders, a practice known as Cross-Border Data Transfer. As Nigerian businesses expand globally, navigating the legal and regulatory landscape surrounding data protection becomes paramount.

Tanta Innovative limited, an indigenous cybersecurity firm specializing in data advisory and solutions for Nigerian businesses, is at the forefront of addressing these challenges. Led by Founder and CEO, Abraham Tanta, the company offers valuable insights and solutions to mitigate the risks associated with cross-border data transfers.

“Cross-border data transfer presents significant challenges, including potential breaches and legal implications,” stated Abraham Tanta. “At Tanta Innovative, we provide Nigerian businesses with free advisory services and deploy various solutions to preemptively address data breaches.”

Tanta elaborated on the complexities of cross-border data transfer, emphasizing the importance of compliance with regulations such as the Nigerian Data Protection Regulation (NDPR). He highlighted key considerations including Adequacy Decisions by the Nigerian Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) for approved countries and the use of Derogations for countries not on the approved list.Abraham Esandayinze Tanta - Quora

Furthermore, Tanta emphasized the stringent data protection standards set by the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the necessity for Nigerian businesses to understand and comply with these regulations when engaging with EU clients or partners.

In addition to legal considerations, Tanta underscored the importance of implementing robust technical measures to safeguard data during transfer, including encryption and secure channels.

Looking ahead, Tanta stressed the need for Nigerian businesses to stay informed about evolving data protection regulations globally and adapt their practices accordingly. Tanta Innovative stands ready to support businesses with security compliance assessments, contract reviews, and comprehensive IT consulting services.

In conclusion, Tanta urged Nigerian businesses to prioritize understanding their data, staying compliant with relevant regulations, and partnering wisely with international counterparts who prioritize data protection. For businesses navigating complex data transfer challenges, Tanta Innovative offers a wealth of expertise and resources to ensure peace of mind.

 

 

….Nigerian businesses to prioritize understanding their data, staying compliant with relevant regulations, and partnering wisely with international counterparts who prioritize data protection. For businesses navigating complex data transfer challenges, Tanta Innovative offers a wealth of expertise and resources to ensure peace of mind.

Catherine Nwosu Appointed as Managing Director/CEO of Africa Prudential Plc

Catherine Nwosu Appointed as Managing Director/CEO of Africa Prudential Plc

 

 

Africa Prudential Plc is delighted to announce the appointment of Catherine Nwosu as the Managing Director/CEO, marking a significant milestone for Nigeria’s premier registrar company.

With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Catherine Nwosu brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. Having previously served as the Chief Operating Officer at Africa Prudential Plc and later as the Head of Stakeholders Engagement at BUA Group, Catherine has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic acumen.

As the 2nd Vice President at the Institute of Capital Market Registrars (ICMR), Catherine has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of capital market registrars. Her elevation to the position of Managing Director/CEO at Africa Prudential Plc makes her the first female to hold such a position in a listed Registrar Company on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX).

“We are thrilled to welcome Catherine Nwosu as the Managing Director/CEO of Africa Prudential Plc. Her extensive experience, proven leadership, and commitment to excellence make her the ideal candidate to lead the strategic vision of our esteemed company,” remarked the Africa Prudential Plc.

Catherine Nwosu’s appointment underscores the company’s dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity at the highest echelons of leadership. As the first female MD/CEO of a listed Registrar Company on the NGX, Catherine is poised to contribute significantly to the continued success and growth of Africa Prudential Plc.

Remembering Chizzy Wigwe: An Exceptional Legacy of Ambition and Fearlessness

Remembering Chizzy Wigwe: An Exceptional Legacy of Ambition and Fearlessness

 

In a tragic turn of events, the untimely passing of Chizzy Wigwe, the late heir to the fortune of Herbert Wigwe, CEO of Access Bank, leaves a void in the business world. Chizzy, at the age of 29, was not merely the successor to a billionaire’s empire; he was an exceptional individual who pursued audacious goals with unwavering determination.

Chizzy’s early life was marked by privilege, but he chose to forge his own path. Sent by his parents to Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) to learn the intricacies of finance, Chizzy quickly became a standout performer. His remarkable journey at AFC, starting in 2019, was set to culminate in joining his father at Access Group this year, a testament to his rapid professional ascent.

However, Chizzy’s story extends beyond the conventional corporate trajectory. In addition to his promising career, Chizzy engaged in the world of crypto and forex trading, showcasing a side hustle common among young individuals of his generation. This unconventional pursuit served as a testament to his ambition to surpass his father’s success and establish financial independence.

Chizzy’s audacity and fearlessness were evident in his vocal celebration of successful trades, sharing significant profits with colleagues at AFC. His drive to be more than the heir to a financial empire reflected the Wigwe family’s refusal to settle for less and their consistent demand for more from life.

The legacy of Chizzy Wigwe is a powerful reminder to dream big, demand more from life, and never settle for less, irrespective of one’s background. The Wigwe family, exemplifying the values of present and exemplary parenting, stands as a testament to the impact of nurturing ambition and fearlessness.

This press release serves as a tribute to the exceptional life of Chizzy Wigwe, a young man who, despite his brief time with us, left an indelible mark on the business world.

National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, Hosts Nigeria Education Loan Fund Executive Secretary, Akintunde Sawyerr, for Collaboration Talks

National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, Hosts Nigeria Education Loan Fund Executive Secretary, Akintunde Sawyerr, for Collaboration Talks

The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, welcomed the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Akintunde Sawyerr, and his team to the Agency’s Corporate Headquarters. The primary objective of this visit was to explore collaboration opportunities, seek technical guidance, and garner support for the successful implementation of NELFUND’s initiative, aiming to facilitate easier access to higher education for all Nigerians.

In a meeting that emphasized the importance of cross-sector partnerships, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE and Akintunde Sawyerr engaged in discussions regarding the potential synergies between NITDA and NELFUND. The collaboration seeks to leverage technological advancements and expertise to enhance the effectiveness of NELFUND’s mission in providing accessible higher education opportunities across the country.

“We are delighted to welcome the esteemed team from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund to NITDA’s headquarters. This collaborative effort aligns with our commitment to supporting initiatives that contribute to the development of education and technology in Nigeria,” remarked Kashifu Inuwa CCIE during the meeting.

The discussions centered on strategic technical guidance, potential areas of cooperation, and the necessary support mechanisms required for the seamless execution of NELFUND’s goals. The partnership aims to harness the power of technology to address challenges in the education sector, ultimately fostering increased accessibility to higher education for all Nigerian citizens.

Nigeria’s Thriving Tech Ecosystem Takes Center Stage at the 2024 NITDA CO-CREATE West Africa Tech Exhibition and Gage Awards

Nigeria’s Thriving Tech Ecosystem Takes Center Stage at the 2024 NITDA CO-CREATE West Africa Tech Exhibition and Gage Awards

 

Dr. Aminu Maida, represented by Mr. Reuben Muoka, Director Public Affairs at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), delivered a compelling keynote address at the 2024 NITDA CO-CREATE West Africa Tech Exhibition and Gage Awards. Highlighting Nigeria’s dynamic startup scene, Dr. Maida emphasized the nation’s impressive and youthful population, poised to embrace technology and innovation.

The address underscored the critical role played by a burgeoning pool of talent in Nigeria, including skilled developers, engineers, and entrepreneurs, in fueling the vibrant startup ecosystem. Dr. Maida and Mr. Muoka stressed the importance of fostering a conducive environment for startups to not only survive but also thrive and scale.

“Nigeria boasts of a large and youthful population, eager to embrace technology and innovation, and this vibrant startup scene is fueled by a growing pool of talent, including skilled developers, engineers, and entrepreneurs hence the need to create a more conducive environment for startups to thrive and scale,” remarked Dr. Aminu Maida in the keynote address.

The 2024 NITDA CO-CREATE West Africa Tech Exhibition and Gage Awards serve as a pivotal platform for stakeholders to converge, exchange ideas, and celebrate the achievements of the region’s tech innovators. The event underscores Nigeria’s commitment to fostering an environment that encourages technological advancements, entrepreneurship, and the growth of the startup ecosystem.

Light up your run with the Garmin Forerunner 165 Series, easy-to-use GPS running smartwatches with vibrant AMOLED displays

Light up your run with the Garmin Forerunner 165 Series, easy-to-use GPS running smartwatches with vibrant AMOLED displays

 

 

Newest Forerunners add personalized training plans, advanced fitness metrics,

wellness insights and more at an exceptional value

 

SCHAFFHAUSEN, Switzerland./February 20, 2024/PR Newswire – Garmin (NYSE: GRMN) today announced the Forerunner® 165 Series, affordable GPS running smartwatches that help athletes of all skill levels meet their goals with personalized adaptive training plans plus popular health and fitness metrics—all on a bright AMOLED display. Available in two models, Forerunner 165 and Forerunner 165 Music, the latest additions to Garmin’s pace-setting lineup of running smartwatches boast easy-to-read full-color displays, responsive touchscreens and a traditional 5-button design. With fast and easy access to everyday health features, advanced training metrics, recovery insights, smart notifications and more, runners can track their progress without sacrificing battery life; both models get up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 19 hours in GPS mode.

 

“Whether you’re looking to complete your first 5K or set a new PR, the Forerunner 165 Series is here to help you through every step of your running journey. With personalized training plans, advanced running and recovery metrics, and 24/7 wellness monitoring, these user-friendly smartwatches include impressive tools to help you cross the finish line.” –Dan Bartel, Garmin Vice President of Global Consumer Sales

 

Features to love on the Forerunner 165 Series

 

Packed with Garmin’s signature health, fitness and connected features, the Forerunner 165 Series is ready to take training to the next level.

 

  • AMOLED Display: View training stats, recovery insights, smart notifications and more on a vibrant, 1.2-inch AMOLED display.
  • Race Adaptive Training Plans: Receive training tips, personalized daily suggested workouts and completion time predictions based on race details entered into the Garmin Connect™
  • Wrist-Based Running Power and Dynamics: View real-time power and measure crucial running metrics, like cadence, stride length and ground contact time – all from the wrist – to help improve running form.
  • Training Effect: See how workouts are affecting fitness and understand benefits from training runs and workouts.
  • Courses: Create or find existing courses in the Garmin Connect app and from third-party platforms, then sync them directly to the watch.
  • Additional Activity Profiles and Workouts: Stay active with more than 25 activity profiles, including trail running, open water swimming, pickleball, tennis and more, plus new workouts for strength, HIIT, cardio, yoga and Pilates.
  • Morning Report: Start the day off right with a customizable report that provides an overview of last night’s sleep1 and the day’s training outlook, alongside HRV (heart rate variability) status and weather.
  • Pulse Ox: Track blood oxygen saturation while awake or asleep2.
  • Sleep Monitoring and Sleep Score: Every morning, receive a personalized score for last night’s sleep, view the different sleep stages and gain insights for improved sleep quality.
  • Nap Detection: Automatically track or log naps to see how they may benefit the body and the suggested time and duration they should be.
  • Music Storage: Download songs and playlists from Spotify®, Deezer or Amazon Music accounts3 for phone-free listening with wireless headphones4 (available only on Forerunner 165 Music).
  • Audio Prompts: Follow guided workouts or hear performance alerts with wireless headphones connected to the watch (available only on Forerunner 165 Music).
  • Garmin Pay™ Contactless Payments: Breeze through select checkout lines and transit systems through participating providers5.

 

 

Race day ready

 

No matter the distance, the Forerunner 165 Series has the tools to help runners crush their next PR by monitoring pace, distance, wrist-based heart rate1, VO2 max and more. Those training for their next race can take advantage of several different adaptive training plan options: Either enter the race information into the Garmin Connect calendar and receive race training plans that adapt after every run to match performance and recovery, or use free Garmin Coach 5K, 10K and half-marathon plans created by expert coaches. Runners can also take advantage of personalized daily suggested workouts that adapt after every run to match performance and recovery. And to prepare for their ideal race day strategy, PacePro™ provides runners with grade-adjusted pacing guidance based on course elevation and personal pacing preferences.

 

Around-the-clock wellness tracking

 

Before, during and after a workout, the Forerunner 165 Series is designed to track overall well-being 24/7. Keep track of heart rate right from the wrist, plus sleep and stress tracking, and more. Body Battery™ energy monitoring can help track the body’s energy levels to find the best times for activity and rest, and even provide insights on how sleep, naps, activities and stress impact energy levels. Fitness age can estimate how fit runners are compared to their actual age—acting as a helpful reminder to stay active and make healthy choices. The Forerunner 165 Series also includes women’s health tracking features, letting users track their menstrual cycle and pregnancy while also getting exercise and nutrition education.

 

Stay connected

 

For life on the go, the Forerunner 165 Series lets users receive emails, texts and alerts when paired with their compatible iPhone® or Android™ smartphone. Safety and tracking features can help provide peace of mind; for example, when the watch is paired to the Garmin Connect smartphone app, a message with the user’s name and location (if available) can be sent to pre-selected emergency contacts if an incident is detected6. Users can also download apps, watch faces and more from the Connect IQ™ Store right on the watch, or find more options in the smartphone app.

 

Available now, the Forerunner 165 has a suggested retail price of R 6 499.00 while the Forerunner 165 Music is R 7 499.00.

 

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for runners, cyclists, swimmers and athletes of all levels and abilities. Committed to developing technology that helps people stay active and elevate performance, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. Visit the Garmin Newsroom, email our media team, connect with @garminrunning on social, or follow our blog.

 

1 Activity tracking accuracy.

2 This is not a medical device and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or monitoring of any medical condition; see Garmin.com/ataccuracy. Pulse Ox is not available in all countries.

3 Premium subscription required.

4 Not included.

5 View current supported country, payment network and issuing bank information.

6 When paired with a compatible smartphone; see Garmin.com/ble. For safety and tracking features requirements and limitations, see Garmin.com/safety.

 

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About Garmin International, Inc. Garmin International, Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN). Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin and Forerunner are registered trademarks and Garmin Connect, Garmin Pay, PacePro, Body Battery and Connect IQ are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Apple is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Android is a trademark of Google LLC. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

 

Notice on Forward-Looking Statements:

This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd. and its business. Such statements are based on management’s current expectations. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 0001-411180). A copy of such Form 10-K is available at http://www.garmin.com/aboutGarmin/invRelations/finReports.html. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

 

 

NITDA Director General Commends Jigawa State’s Digital Skills Initiative

NITDA Director General Commends Jigawa State’s Digital Skills Initiative

 

 

In a significant stride towards enhancing digital literacy and empowering the youth, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi CCIE, graced the launching ceremony of the Jigawa State Digital Skills Acquisition Programme. The event, organized by the Jigawa Digital Economy Team in collaboration with the State Youth Empowerment and Employment Agency, aimed to equip hundreds of Jigawa youths with essential digital skills.

The program’s primary objective is to empower participants with a diverse range of digital skills, fostering their effectiveness, entrepreneurial spirit, and employability within the rapidly evolving digital landscape.May be an image of 7 people, dais and text

Commending the Jigawa state government for its proactive approach, Inuwa lauded the commitment shown in aligning with the current administration’s goal of achieving a 70% digital literacy coverage by 2027. This initiative reflects the state’s dedication to preparing its youth for the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital era.

In his address, Inuwa urged the participants to diligently apply the skills acquired during the program. Emphasizing the crucial role these skills play in shaping the future workforce, he highlighted their potential to contribute to the state’s reputation as one of the leading ICT-compliant states in the country.

The Digital Skills Acquisition Programme stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and agencies, showcasing the power of partnerships in driving digital transformation at the grassroots level. The initiative not only addresses the immediate need for skilled individuals in the digital sector but also aligns with broader national goals of building a digitally literate and competitive workforce.

As the participants embark on their journey to acquire and apply these digital skills, the ripple effect is expected to positively impact Jigawa State’s socio-economic landscape, contributing to a more vibrant and tech-savvy community. With the support of initiatives like these, the nation moves closer to realizing its digital literacy targets and unlocking the full potential of its youth in the digital age.

SKILL ACQUISITION CRITICAL FOR INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT- MAIGARI AHMADU

SKILL ACQUISITION CRITICAL FOR INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT- MAIGARI AHMADU
The Honourable Minister of State, Ministry of Steel Development, His Excellency Uba Maigari Ahmadu has stated that the promotion of skill acquisition is essential in propelling the industry forward, enhance human capital for economic growth, create employment opportunities as well as strengthen the Continent’s industrial fabric, .
The Honourable Minister made this statement on Tuesday, 5th March, 2024 at the 2nd Annual Assembly and International Welding Federation Africa Conference holding in Lagos, Nigeria.
Delivering the opening remarks, the Minister stated that the Conference represents a significant milestone in the collective efforts to promote excellence and innovation in the field of welding across the African continent that will enhance advanced welding technologies, foster collaboration and drive sustainable development in the region as well as promote knowledge exchange and best practices in the industry.
According to him, it was in recognition of the importance of the future of welding in Africa for industrial and economic growth that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, launched the National Welding Policy in 2023. He stated that:
“I am reminded of the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR and his steadfast commitment to advancing the welding sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda. President Tinubu’s National Welding Policy, launched in December 2023 exemplifies a strategic approach to leveraging our natural resources and human capital to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance industrial competitiveness. Central to President Tinubu’s welding policy is the recognition of the critical role played by training and skills development in building a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving industry”.
Speaking further, Ahmadu disclosed that the Metallurgical Training Institute NMTI Onitsha, an institution dedicated to equipping youths with the requisite skills and knowledge in welding and metallurgy has a pivotal role to play in achieving excellence in welding education as it offers state-of-the-art facilities, world-class training programmes with expert faculty members, adding that through its innovative curriculum and hands-on learning approach, the institute is empowering youths with the practical skills and technical expertise needed to excel in the welding profession.
The Minister assured of the Nigerian Government’s firm commitment to work hand-in-hand with Welding Federation Africa to explore partnerships in the areas of: Modernizing welding training infrastructure with cutting-edge technology and equipment; Developing industry-aligned curriculum that equips graduates with the skills demanded by the modern workforce; Establishing international certification programmes to ensure the quality and mobility of our welding professionals; Investing in targeted outreach programmes to encourage young Nigerians, particularly women and those in underserved communities, to pursue careers in welding; Promoting the economic viability of the welding profession by creating attractive career paths and offering competitive compensation, among others.
He commended the Welding Federation Africa for its tireless efforts in promoting excellence and collaboration in welding across Africa and urged stakeholders to seize the opportunities afforded by the Conference to forge partnerships, share knowledge, and chart a course towards advancement of welding and joining science for a safer and prosperous future for the welding industry in Africa.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Amb. Nura Abba Rimi, represented by Director Industrial Development, Muhammad Bala, stated that the the Ministry is committed towards implementing Strategic Policies to enhance the fabrication of machineries and equipment, aligning with the evolving landscape of materials manufacturing technologies. Adding that the theme, “Materials Manufacturing Technologies: Managing Capacity in Africa,” deeply reflects the essence of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to manage and expand manufacturing capacity within Africa.
He revealed that the Ministry has entrusted the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) with a strategic order, aimed at prioritizing and expediting welding skills development initiatives, stating that the ITF, is dedicated to stimulating skills, improving productivity, and fostering value-added production. He enjoined the Welding Federation (TWF) to collaborate with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) in order to access funds, noting that by joining forces, stakeholders can collectively address the pressing issue of the skills gap in welding-related industries in Nigeria.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Welding Federation (TWF) Conference Management Committee, Dr. Austen Timi Peters stated that the Federation, fully developed will shore up Forex and contribute to the growth of the economy, stating that, developing welding skills “can take unemployed youths off the streets”.
Other speakers at the event includ; the Chairman, Petroleum Technology Association (PETAN); President, Council of Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN); President, international Institute of Welding with Delegates from all over Africa.

VP Shettima Hands Over 200 New Stores To Lucky Traders At Adire Market*

VP Shettima Hands Over 200 New Stores To Lucky Traders At Adire Market*
Offering a lifeline for traders in Ogun State, Vice President Kashim Shettima has announced the handover of 200 newly refurbished stores for use to 400 entrepreneurs at the popular Asero Adire market in Abeokuta.
The beneficiaries will use the stores free of charge for a period of one year, after which they will be charged discounted rates for the use of the facilities.
The gesture is part of efforts by President Tinubu administration to support small businesses by providing an enabling environment for them to thrive.
Vice President Shettima announced the gesture on Tuesday at the second edition of the Expanded National MSME Clinics in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
According to the Vice President, the Clinics and related activities hold the promise of easing the way for small businesses to transform their empires or unicorns of note.
His words: “The National MSME Clinics serve as a bridge between us—between the people and the government. They are designed to bring the government in close proximity to the people by convening all regulatory agencies under one roof.
“This journey further reinforces my conviction that our paramount responsibility as a government is to persist in crafting an enabling environment that allows these small businesses not only to thrive but also to expand their horizons”.
Assuring that the Federal Government, in collaboration with partners, will not rest on their oars until small businesses reach the heights of their potential, the Vice President noted that the overall objective is to “foster an ecosystem where innovation flourishes, where the entrepreneurial spirit of Nigeria shines brightly on the global stage, and where our collaborations yield immense dividends.”
He expressed confidence that with little support, MSMEs across the country can deploy their talents, creativity and boundless energy to building more viable enterprises.
The Vice President paid glowing tributes to the Ogun State government for their cooperation in the project, describing the state “as a guiding force in the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting enterprises and empowering their owners.”
He noted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for the nation which he said “relies on exploring the industrial capabilities developed in this Gateway to the Nation”.
Apart from the Clinics, the VP also commissioned two projects executed by the Federal Government in collaboration with partners – the ultra-modern fashion hub for MSMEs and the refurbished Asero Adire market, all in Abeokuta.
Earlier in remarks, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, thanked the Vice President for his commitment for the establishment of the Fashion Hub and refurbished Adire market in the State.
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He said the event aligns the efforts of the State government in supporting businesses to grow by facilitating access to finance and markets.
The Governor also outlined other innovations by the state government in creating an enabling environment for small businesses, leveraging technology and introducing grant schemes for them.
On his part, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Mr Wale Edun reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to improving the welfare of Nigerians especially supporting small businesses to thrive and grow.
Also present at the event were members of the National Assembly from Ogun State, including Sen. Solomon Adeola; Sen. Shuaibu Salisu, and Hon. Kafilat Ogbara; Minister of State for Environment, Dr Izaq Salako; the paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adetotun Gbadebo and other traditional rulers in Ogun State, and heads of government agencies, among others.