The federal government will inaugurate the 200,000 yam capacity storage facility for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises ( MSMEs) in Benue on June 9, the presidency said.
In a statement in Abuja on Wednesday, the Presidency said the inauguration was part of the commitment of the federal government to support the growth of small businesses across the country, by providing critical infrastructure.
The facility, situated on the Zaki Biam International Yam Market, is part of the National MSMEs Shared Facility Scheme, being introduced under the National MSMEs Clinics by the federal government.
The shared facility project, an initiative of the National MSMEs Clinics, is aimed at meeting the needs of enterprises under a cluster arrangement for production.
The pilot scheme was launched in Oyo by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (Shea-butter production and Fashion Industry) and Bauchi (Groundnut Oil production and Liquid / Hard Soaps production).
Tola Johnson, Special Assistant to the President of MSMEs, Vice President ‘s Office, said the facility would cater for small-scale farmers and MSMEs who have lost enormous revenue due to lack of access to adequate storage.
Mr Johnson, who also heads the National Secretariat for MSMEs Clinics, said the (virtual) 2020 edition of the National Micro , Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) awards would be held in July.
According to him, the decision to hold a virtual edition of the awards is in line with the directives of the federal government on strict adherence to established protocols that aim to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
He said recipients of the award and other participants would join the event from locations across the country via videoconference (zoom).
Mr Johnson added that the 2020 virtual awards version will highlight best-innovative and excellent MSMEs around the country that will be awarded with best awards in line with the awards goals.
President Muhammadu Buhari will send a special message to the country’s MSMEs while Vice President Osinbajo will deliver the keynote speech.
State governors will virtually join the event from their respective states, while other stakeholders will also participate through video conferencing.
Since 2018, when the inaugural event was held, several MSMEs across the country have won various prizes including vehicles.
