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Again, FG Disburses ₦250,000 Each To Small Businesses At 7th MSMEs Clinic In Ondo

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Again, FG Disburses ₦250,000 Each To Small Businesses At 7th MSMEs Clinic In Ondo

** Enabling environment for MSMEs central to President Tinubu’s economic policy, says VP Shettima

By: Our Reporter

The federal government, on Tuesday, disbursed ₦250,000 unconditional grants each to outstanding business owners in Ondo State as part of ongoing efforts to empower Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.

To this effect, Vice President Kashim Shettima, who announced the disbursement of the grants, said creating an enabling environment for MSMEs in Nigeria is central to the economic policy of the Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking during the launch of the 7th Expanded National MSME Clinics in Akure, the Ondo State capital, Senator Shettima described the ₦250,000 grant as a gift from Nigerians, through their government, to the champions of local industry.

“I am also pleased to announce today, in line with President Tinubu’s unwavering support for grassroots enterprises, that every outstanding exhibiting MSME identified during this clinic will receive an unconditional grant of ₦250,000.

“This is not a loan. It is a gift from the Nigerian people, through their government, to the champions of local industry. It is our way of saying: we see you, we value you, and we believe in your journey,” he declared.

The Vice President noted that because MSMEs account for over 90 per cent of businesses in Nigeria, contributing over 45 per cent to the national economy and employing more than 60 million Nigerians, they are not only economic actors but also “the silent architects of survival, the lifelines of households, the pulse of every community”.

Explaining why MSMEs are central to the economic policy of the Tinubu administration, VP Shettima maintained that while they are the true engine of poverty alleviation, no sustainable effort to reduce poverty could be achieved without the jobs and opportunities they create.

Nigeria’s national prosperity, according to the VP, is entwined in the success of MSMEs, and the nation cannot grow its economy without empowering them.

He continued: “This is why the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu places the creation of an enabling environment for MSMEs at the heart of our economic policy. It is not rhetoric. It is a call to action. It is a covenant with the builders of our future.

“This administration is deliberate in walking the talk, and one of the ways we do so is through platforms such as the MSME Clinics, conceived to draw the Federal Government closer to the creators of jobs, the innovators, the dreamers who make things happen in our communities.”

Underscoring the essence of launching the Expanded MSMEs Clinic in Ondo State, the Vice President said they offer small businesses in the state an unprecedented opportunity “to engage directly with regulatory agencies, financial institutions, and business support organisations.”

Senator Shettima also outlined other interventions under the President Tinubu administration to include the creation of a ₦75 billion MSME Intervention Fund being administered by the Bank of Industry (BoI), ₦50 billion Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme to support one million nano businesses across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria with grants of ₦50,000 each, and ₦75 billion Manufacturers Fund for manufacturers to access up to ₦1 billion in funding at a 9 percent interest rate.

He said the idea is to ensure the challenges of small business owners “find answers, not in theories or wishful thinking, but in real-time, face-to-face, problem-solving conversations.”

The VP assured that MSMEs remain the centre of economic vision of the Tinubu administration, urging small business owners “to take full advantage of the opportunities before them by engaging with the agencies present, seeking guidance, asking questions, and seizing every chance to elevate their businesses.

He thanked the government of Ondo State for its partnership on investments in infrastructure, commending the state’s commitment to policies that welcome innovation and enterprise, as well as its support for local industry, which align perfectly with the federal government’s “broader agenda for a prosperous, inclusive economy.”

Earlier, the Governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, said the state government is also in alignment with the initiative of the federal government to drive MSME development and is implementing schemes that have enabled small businesses to address challenges inhibiting their growth.

He pointed out that his administration’s 7-point agenda, which prioritises MSME growth and development, has been impactful and has resulted in successes across different sectors of agriculture, manufacturing, and fashion, among others.

Acknowledging the determination of President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima to support growth in the sector, Governor Aiyedatiwa said, “Your presence here today demonstrates your unwavering commitment to the development of our state and key sectors of our nation’s economy.

“Your interest in promoting MSMEs across Nigeria has changed the fortunes and stories of small businesses across our country, and we remain grateful.”

In a goodwill message, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State appreciated the federal government, particularly the Vice President, for personally driving the initiative of the Clinics.

He acknowledged that the Ekiti edition of the clinics had been impactful and remains invaluable, as businesses have continued to benefit from the network created through the programme.

Governor Oyebanji said the programme is the first attempt by any government in Nigeria to align growth to development through a deliberate and direct interface between facilitators and small business operators across the country.

In his welcome address, the Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSME, Mr Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, said the Clinics have so far been very impactful, given the testimonials from operators in the sector.

He noted that the edition in Ondo State will not be different, as MSMEs were already interacting with regulatory agencies and partners to resolve issues affecting the growth of their businesses.

On his part, the Ooni of Ife, His Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, acknowledged the contributions of the Vice President and Ondo state Governor to the growth of the MSME sector in the state, urging all stakeholders to support and promote made-in-Nigeria products as part of the broad plan to support budding entrepreneurs across the country.

On his part, the Director General of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN), Mr Charles Odii, said that through the Clinics, the Tinubu administration’s agenda for small businesses is being actualised as evidenced in the feedback received from participants at the Ondo clinics.

The high point of the occasion was the tour of the products exhibition by small business operators in Ondo and beyond by the Vice President, accompanied by the governors of Ondo and Ekiti, among other dignitaries.

Earlier, while addressing the traditional council at their chamber, Vice President Shettima thanked the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adedeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ojaja II, describing him as a bridge builder who is endeared by the Tinubu Administration.

He told the traditional council that President Tinubu, “being a son of the South West, is a man of courage who means well for traditional institutions.”

VP Shettima noted that President Tinubu is aware of the condition of the people across the country, and has summoned the courage to remove fuel subsidy, stop multiple taxation and open the Lagos-Badagry-Calabar Highway for economic activities along that corridor,” among many other policies of government to mitigate the sufferings of the people.

Earlier, the Chairman of Ondo State Council of Chiefs, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, commended President Tinubu for removing fuel subsidy, noting that this has enabled the federal government to deploy the subsidy funds to other sectors of the economy for which Ondo State is a beneficiary.

He also commended the federal government for being focused and pledged the support of the traditional council to the success of government policies, both at the national and Ondo state levels.

Again, FG Disburses ₦250,000 Each To Small Businesses At 7th MSMEs Clinic In Ondo

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Nigeria Commiserates with Ghana Over Death of Two Cabinet Ministers, Top Government Officials in Helicopter Crash

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August 7, 2025

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Nigeria Commiserates with Ghana Over Death of Two Cabinet Ministers, Top Government Officials in Helicopter Crash

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government has extended its deepest condolences to the Government and people of the Republic of Ghana, following the unfortunate tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of two Ghanaian Ministers, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah (Defence), Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed (Environment), along with other officials en route to Obuasi on Wednesday.

A statement by the spokesperson of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa read that: “This devastating incident has not only robbed Ghana of distinguished public servants but has also left a profound void in the West African region. Dr. Boamah and Hon. Muhammed were dedicated leaders who served their nation with unwavering commitment, and their contributions to regional security and environmental sustainability will be deeply missed.

“Nigeria stands in solidarity with Ghana during this period of immense grief. We share in the sorrow of our brothers and sisters in Ghana and offer our prayers for the peaceful repose of the departed souls.

“Our thoughts are also with the families of the deceased, as well as the entire Ghanaian government.

“As neighbours and partners in progress, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two nations, even in moments of profound loss.

“May the Almighty grant Ghana the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

Nigeria Commiserates with Ghana Over Death of Two Cabinet Ministers, Top Government Officials in Helicopter Crash

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FG Advises Nigerians on Getting Abroad to Profile Themselves at Foreign Missions to Allow for Early Intervention in Case of Mistreatment

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2 hours ago

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August 7, 2025

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FG Advises Nigerians on Getting Abroad to Profile Themselves at Foreign Missions to Allow for Early Intervention in Case of Mistreatment

By: Michael Mike

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised Nigerians traveling abroad to make it a point of duty to register with the Nigerian mission in their host country in order to be accorded timely intervention in case of emergencies.

The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ahmed Dunoma made this appeal while receiving a delegation from the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria, (DICAN), led by its Chairman, Frederick Idehai Frederick.

The Permanent Secretary while citing a recent incident where Nigerians were trapped in the Central African Republic, and some individuals, especially on social media, attempted to tarnish the Ministry’s image emphasised that the ministry, Nigeria embassies and consulates should be informed of their presence during arrival not when they run into trouble.

He said: “I advise Nigerians to make it a point of duty to make their presence known to the Nigerian mission in the country they’re visiting.

“This simple step can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that Nigerians receive the support they need in times of crisis.

“There was a recent case of Nigerians trapped in Central African Republic, where some Nigerians tried to give the Ministry a bad name,” he said.

Dunoma while highlighting the importance of timely information dissemination, also called for a deeper collaboration between the Ministry and the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) in order to combat disinformation and misinformation.

He said DICAN and the ministry share a common goal of promoting a positive image of Nigeria.

“Most of the time, given the necessary information before people will even ask for information is crucial in managing crises effectively.

“We are saddled with the role of laundering the image of the country. Hence, the inevitability of a strengthened partnership between DICAN and the Ministry.

“This partnership is crucial in ensuring that accurate information about Nigeria is disseminated to the public, both locally and internationally,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary expressed gratitude to DICAN for organizing the recent world class maiden Diplomatic, Security International Conference that brought about together about seventy diplomats, security, intelligence, academics, corporate organisations, civil societies among other stakeholders to brainstorm on how to make the world a safer and better place to live.

He stated that the conference has enriched discussions on security and the impact of the 4Ds Policy direction of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s in enhancing Nigeria’s foreign image in the face of disinformation.

He said: “I thank DICAN for putting the programme together, it has enriched discuss on security and promote a positive image of Nigeria as well as ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens abroad.

“By working together, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and DICAN can promote a more accurate understanding of Nigeria’s role in international affairs and address the challenges posed by disinformation and misinformation.

“We have a lot of challenges, but it is our duty to ensure that the positive narrative is given out there, because we have to be patriotic.

“I think we need to sit down, work together and see how we can also be proactive.”

Presenting an award of excellence to the Permanent Secretary, the Chairman of DICAN, Frederick Idehai , solicited more support to ensure that the association carries out its agenda setting programmes.

“The Permanent Secretary has shown commitment to working with DICAN, and we appreciate his efforts in promoting a positive image of Nigeria,” Idehai said.

FG Advises Nigerians on Getting Abroad to Profile Themselves at Foreign Missions to Allow for Early Intervention in Case of Mistreatment

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NDLEA, India’s NCB join efforts to end illicit shipments of tramadol, others to Nigeria

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2 hours ago

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August 7, 2025

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NDLEA, India’s NCB join efforts to end illicit shipments of tramadol, others to Nigeria

By: Michael Mike

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) of India have agreed to intensify their efforts in the fight against shipment of illicit drugs between the two countries especially the illegal flow of opioids such as tramadol and codeine-based syrup to Nigeria from the South Asian country.

This was part of agreements reached during a virtual meeting between the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) and the Director General of NCB, Mr. Anurag Garg along with top officials of the two anti-narcotics agencies on Wednesday

In his remarks at the meeting, Marwa noted the threat posed to public health and security by illicit drugs in both Nigeria and India, while emphasizing the need to strengthen the existing partnership between NDLEA and NCB based on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the two agencies in 2023.

He said: “The main reason why I requested for this engagement is the illicit importation of tramadol and codeine cough syrup into Nigeria from India. This is a point that I raised the day we signed the MoU. Now, in the last 18 months, that’s from January 2024 to June this year, we have seized over one billion pills of opioids mainly tramadol and more than 14.4 million bottles of codeine syrup. This is why we need the support and collaboration of the Narcotics Control Bureau of India to work with us on this.”

The NDLEA boss also asked the NCB to assist NDLEA in specialized trainings, stating that: “The other point from me, is seeking your assistance on capacity building and training. We have had training in the past from India on drugs and investigation, training for analysts, financial investigation, cyber training, the dark web and so on. We will very much appreciate sharing from your experiences and knowledge and your support on training for our officers.”

In his response, the NCB boss Anurag Garg said it is essential for the two agencies to strengthen the existing partnership because the drug problem cuts across international borders, while he assured of their readiness to share knowledge, intelligence and experience with NDLEA on a number of areas of interest.

According to him, “we all know that there are transnational syndicates involved in the illicit drug shipments into Nigeria but we’re ready to work with you on this. Unless we come together, we cannot end this malady because we’re dealing with transnational drug syndicates, they have no respect for borders, national laws. So, the only method as of now is to collaborate, and it is a good opportunity, I mean, this meeting, we can take this initiative forward.

“On the issue of capacity building, we will be happy to offer you training. We have a training centre where we will be happy to host you for any training. I mean, as per your need, we can have a curated training programme through which we will be very happy to share whatever we know on the subject of clandestine labs or precursors or darknet monitoring or investigating darknet vendors and so on and so forth.”

NDLEA, India’s NCB join efforts to end illicit shipments of tramadol, others to Nigeria

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