From ABBAS GUNGURA, Bauchi
The Executive Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed, has commended Bauchi State Commissioner of Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Hon. Sadiq Hamisu Shira, for his tireless efforts and constant consultation with critical stakeholders for the advancement and overall development of SMEs in the state.
He heartily gave the commendation when he received in audience, the Director-General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDA), Mr Charles Odii at the Bauchi State Government Lodge in Abuja.
Governor Bala Mohammed gave the assurance that his government will continue to support the commissioner to consolidate on the existing partnership between Bauchi State Government and SMEDAN on the targeted programmes that will foster job creation, reduce poverty and address youths restiveness in the state.
According to him, “Small and Medium Enterprises are important for economic growth and development, regional development, flexibility, social impact, and diversification of the economy”.
While appreciating the role being played by SMEDAN in the development of the country, Governor Mohammed highlighted that their contributions are vital for a thriving and resilient economy thus making SMEs a key component of sustainable and inclusive economic development.
The governor therefore, used this opportunity to request and extend invitation to the SMEDAN and other enterprises, organisations to attend the zonal trade fair scheduled to hold in Bauchi in the month of February 2024.
On his part, the Director-General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr Charles Odii appreciated the efforts of the Bauchi Governor in the areas of strengthening SMEs activities by providing them with technical and financial services to enhance their operations.
The DG acknowledged the empowerment programme launched by the governor across the 20 local government areas of Bauchi and assured of his agency’s support for more interventions in the state for the benefit of the citizens aimed at tackling poverty, unemployment, and youth restiveness.
Our correspondent reports that the Commissioner of Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Hon. Sadiq Hamisu Shira, on his earlier visit to the SMEDAN DG, explained 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 towards supporting the administration of Governor Bala Mohammed to implement all its policies and programmes on SMEs for the economic growth and development.
