Shettima launches ICT hub, awards grants to MSMEs in Cross River

By Kunle Sanni –

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday commissioned a state-of-the-art Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Hub for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Calabar, Cross River State, as part of the Federal Government’s efforts to boost small business growth and digital innovation.

The ICT Hub, located in the refurbished State Library Complex, was launched alongside the 8th Expanded National MSME Clinics and the commissioning of two newly acquired Bombardier CRJ1000 regional jets for the state-owned Cally Air.

Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima said the projects align with the administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for MSMEs to thrive. He announced the disbursement of ₦250,000 unconditional grants to outstanding business owners participating in the clinic, describing it as a “gift to accelerate their journey” rather than a loan.

“The MSME Clinics bring Federal Government support directly to your doorstep. Here, challenges are met with solutions, not promises deferred,” Shettima said, highlighting other interventions such as the ₦75 billion MSME Intervention Fund, the ₦50 billion Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme for nano businesses, and a ₦75 billion Manufacturers Fund offering up to ₦1 billion in financing at single-digit interest rates.

The Vice President praised Governor Bassey Otu for supporting infrastructure and investment initiatives, noting that the new Cally Air jets would improve connectivity and enhance the state’s appeal to investors.

Governor Otu pledged Cross River’s continued support for the Tinubu administration, commending its reforms and vision for building a sustainable economy.

Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, reaffirmed the President’s commitment to small businesses, while Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, described the clinics as a transformative initiative addressing challenges faced by entrepreneurs.

The event brought together key stakeholders in business development, aviation, and governance, underscoring the Federal Government’s focus on combining infrastructure growth with direct economic support to stimulate entrepreneurship and attract investment.