The Federal Government has launched a massive ultramodern fashion manufacturing hub in Maiduguri, which is expected to create over 48,000 jobs in Borno State.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who inaugurated the facility on Tuesday – yesterday, January 28 – reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering innovation, upskilling the workforce, and ensuring equitable wealth distribution across the nation.
“You are the surest means of distributing wealth equitably across the land. You are the crucial link to securing a prosperous future,” the Vice President told the beneficiaries of the scheme.
He disclosed unconditional grants of N300,000 for outstanding Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at the event, as part of FG’s N75 billion support package for MSMEs, explaining that “every business empowered is a step closer to eradicating poverty, and we do not take for granted the critical role you play as the buffer of our economy, particularly at the informal level.”
Stressing that the MSME Clinics provide a unique platform for business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and innovators, Shettima said this would enable them to interact directly with regulatory agencies, financial institutions, and business support organisations.
“It is an avenue to receive practical, on-the-spot solutions to the challenges you face in running your businesses,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the fashion hub is among the largest ever established by the Federal Government.
It is furnished with state-of-the-art equipment to support the fashion manufacturing cluster in Borno.
“We anticipate that this facility will be managed by a competent private sector entity, with federal and state governments providing vigilant oversight,” the Vice President stressed.
“Our vision is for this hub to become a reference point for excellence, enterprise, and training — not only for Borno but for the entire nation.”
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, expressed optimism that the launch of the MSME Clinic would revive business activities, provide employment opportunities, and sources of income for individuals in the State.
For the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, the launch of the MSME Clinic and the Fashion and Innovation Hub marks another milestone of success in the federal administration’s economic revival efforts.
“Everything speaks to the 8-point agenda of Mr President,” the minister said.
According to the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Sen. John Eno, the MSME Clinic is a transformational programme being led by the Vice-President.
Eno disclosed that the programme is responsible for unlocking a lot of economic opportunities, empowering small businesses and encouraging innovation.
Meanwhile, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on MSMEs and Job Creation, Mr Tola Johnson, has expressed appreciation for the commissioning of the Clinic in Borno State.
