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Again, FG Disburses ₦250,000 Each To Small Businesses At 7th MSMEs Clinic In Ondo
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
Troops Secure 27 Cattle After Responding to Farmland Destruction Report in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have secured 27 cattle after responding to a report of farmland destruction in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Military sources told Zagazola that the incident occurred at about 3:00 p.m. on Monday at Taagbe Village.
The sources said troops of Sector 3, Operation Enduring Peace, were deployed to the area following reports that cattle were grazing on farmlands, resulting in the destruction of crops.
Upon arrival, the troops found 27 cattle grazing unattended, with no herders present at the scene.
According to the sources, the cattle were moved to a safe location to prevent further damage to farmlands and to facilitate appropriate administrative action.
The sources added that security personnel remain on alert in the area to forestall any breakdown of law and order, while efforts are ongoing to identify the owners of the cattle and address the incident through the appropriate channels.
The intervention forms part of ongoing measures by security agencies to contain farmer-herder disputes and maintain peace in communities across Plateau State.
Troops Secure 27 Cattle After Responding to Farmland Destruction Report in Plateau
News
NADCEL 2026: 4 BRIGADE CONDUCTS 10KM ROUTE MARCH, PUBLIC SPEAKING ENGAGEMENT, FREE MEDICAL OUTREACH, AND NAOWA EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH IN BENIN CITY
PRESS RELEASE
NADCEL 2026: 4 BRIGADE CONDUCTS 10KM ROUTE MARCH, PUBLIC SPEAKING ENGAGEMENT, FREE MEDICAL OUTREACH, AND NAOWA EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH IN BENIN CITY
As part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026, Headquarters 4 Brigade Nigerian Army successfully conducted a series of civil-military and operational activities, including a 10-kilometre route march, public speaking engagement, free medical outreach, and Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) educational outreach in Benin City, Edo State.
NADCEL is the Nigerian Army’s foremost annual event dedicated to commemorating its establishment, evolution, achievements, and the sacrifices of its personnel in the defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The celebration traces its origin to 6 July 1967, when the Nigerian Army commenced active military operations during the Nigerian Civil War following the firing of the first shot at Garkem in present-day Cross River State. Since then, 6 July has been observed annually as Nigerian Army Day, symbolising the Army’s resilience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to national service.
Activities marking NADCEL 2026 at 4 Brigade commenced on 26 and 28 June 2026 with Juma’at prayers and an Interdenominational Church Service held at GRA and Ekehuan Cantonment respectively. The religious activities were attended by officers, soldiers, and personnel of other security agencies in Edo State. Special prayers were offered for the continued success of the Nigerian Army, the safety of serving personnel, the well-being of retired veterans, and the repose of the souls of fallen heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice in the defence of the nation.
On Friday, 3 July 2026, the Commander 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, led officers and soldiers on a 10-kilometre NADCEL route march through major streets of Benin City as part of activities commemorating the 163rd anniversary of the Nigerian Army. Speaking with journalists at the end of the exercise, the Commander stated that the route march was aimed at creating public awareness of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration while demonstrating the Brigade’s operational readiness to discharge its constitutional responsibilities. He further disclosed that this year’s celebration was unique as the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General W Shaibu NAM had directed all commanders to reassure Nigerians that the Nigerian Army remains fully committed to confronting emerging security threats within their respective areas of responsibility.
Following the route march, the Commander, accompanied by officers and soldiers, proceeded to Edo College Benin City, for a public speaking engagement with the school’s management and students. During the programme, a documentary highlighting the history and evolution of the Nigerian Army was screened, while students were enlightened on the various career opportunities in the Nigerian Army.
The students expressed appreciation to the Brigade Commander for the enlightening engagement, noting that they had gained valuable knowledge about the Nigerian Army and its operations. In his remarks, the Principal of the College, Mr Justice Aigbe, thanked the Brigade for organising the programme themed, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.” Highlights of the event included an interactive question-and-answer session during which the Commander addressed students’ questions, as well as the unveiling and presentation of educational books provided by Army Headquarters to the students.
On Saturday, 4 July 2026, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun led staff officers, personnel of 4 Brigade Medical Centre to Amufi and neighbouring communities in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State for a free medical outreach. The outreach formed part of the Brigade’s activities for NADCEL 2026 and provided free medical consultations, eye screening, reading glasses, dental care, essential drugs dispense, health education, laboratory investigations, including malaria parasite tests, hepatitis B and C screening, retroviral screening, blood sugar tests, and blood pressure checks, among other healthcare services.
Addressing beneficiaries, the Brigade Commander stated that the outreach reflected the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving the well-being of Nigerians beyond its constitutional responsibility of defending the nation’s territorial integrity. He added that the initiative forms part of the Brigade’s non-kinetic operations aimed at strengthening relationships with host communities and appreciating critical stakeholders for their continued support to military operations.
Speaking on behalf of the community, the Ohen of Amufi Kingdom, Chief Iyi-Ewuare Asenogua, expressed profound appreciation to the Nigerian Army for bringing quality healthcare services to the community, noting that over 3,000 beneficiaries received free medical treatment during the exercise. Similarly, the Chairman of Ikpoba Hill Youth Forum, Mr Kingsley Osemwingie, described the outreach as a demonstration of the Nigerian Army’s concern for the welfare of the people, adding that the initiative had significantly improved access to quality healthcare for residents of the community.
On Monday, 6 July 2026, the Zonal Coordinator, Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), 4 Brigade Chapter, Mrs Mariam Aina Balogun, led executive members of the Association to Army Day Secondary School, Ikpoba Hill, Benin City, for a NAOWA Educational Outreach as part of activities commemorating NADCEL 2026. The outreach, which was aimed at promoting educational development and supporting learning among students, was attended by teachers, students, and members of the school community. During the event, educational materials, including customised exercise books, pens, pencils, and erasers, were distributed to over 500 students to encourage academic excellence and support their educational pursuits.
Kennedy Anyanwu
Captain
Assistant Director Army Public Relations
4 Brigade Nigerian Army
Benin City
NADCEL 2026: 4 BRIGADE CONDUCTS 10KM ROUTE MARCH, PUBLIC SPEAKING ENGAGEMENT, FREE MEDICAL OUTREACH, AND NAOWA EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH IN BENIN CITY
Zulum Appoints Engr Peter Samuel as General Manager BOSAMA
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the appointment of Engr Peter Samuel, MNSE, MNIAE, as the General Manager of Borno State Agricultural Mechanization Authority (BOSAMA).
In a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, the appointment was based on Engr Samuel’s outstanding professional competence, proven track record, and experience in agricultural engineering and mechanization.
The statement noted that Engr Samuel possesses the requisite qualifications, technical expertise and leadership capacity required to reposition BOSAMA in line with Governor Zulum’s agricultural transformation agenda.
The newly appointed General Manager is an Agricultural Engineer with academic, professional, administrative, and practical experience in agricultural mechanization, farm power and machinery, irrigation engineering, and agricultural infrastructure development.
He holds a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Farm Power and Machinery from Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (formerly the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi), a Postgraduate Diploma in Farm Management and Production Economics from Nasarawa State University, and a Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) in Agricultural and Environmental Resources Engineering from the University of Maiduguri.
Engr Samuel has distinguished himself through years of meritorious service in teaching, research, agricultural engineering practice, and project implementation. He currently serves as a Lecturer in Farm Power and Machinery at Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri.
Over the years, he has held several strategic leadership positions, including General Manager of a commercial agricultural enterprise, Project Coordinator, Programme Coordinator, and Consultant on numerous agricultural development interventions implemented by reputable national and international organisations.
He is a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Nigerian Institution of Agricultural Engineers (NIAE).
Governor Babagana Zulum congratulated the new General Manager on his appointment and urged him to deploy his wealth of knowledge, technical expertise, and experience in agricultural mechanization to strengthen the operations of BOSAMA
Zulum Appoints Engr Peter Samuel as General Manager BOSAMA
Troops Secure 27 Cattle After Responding to Farmland Destruction Report in Plateau
Troops Arrest Suspected Terrorist Informant, Recover Motorcycle, Cash in Kebbi
NADCEL 2026: 4 BRIGADE CONDUCTS 10KM ROUTE MARCH, PUBLIC SPEAKING ENGAGEMENT, FREE MEDICAL OUTREACH, AND NAOWA EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH IN BENIN CITY
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