In a significant boost to economic empowerment and grassroots development, the Nigerian government has launched one of the country’s largest ultramodern fashion manufacturing hubs in Maiduguri, Borno State. The initiative is expected to generate over 48,000 jobs and bolster the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector.
Vice President Kashim Shettima inaugurated the facility alongside the 6th Expanded National MSME Clinics programme, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to fostering innovation, building skills, and promoting equitable wealth distribution.
As part of the government’s N75 billion MSME support fund managed by the Bank of Industry, 75,000 businesses across the nation will have access to loans of up to N1 million at a 9% interest rate. Additionally, the government announced unconditional grants of N300,000 for outstanding MSMEs participating in the Maiduguri MSME Clinic.
Shettima emphasized the administration’s dedication to empowering small businesses, stating, “Every business empowered is a step closer to eradicating poverty.”
The MSME Clinic provides entrepreneurs a platform to interact with regulatory agencies, financial institutions, and support organizations, helping to resolve challenges and unlock new opportunities.
In tandem with the MSME initiatives, Shettima highlighted the FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme, a collaboration with Wema Bank. This program has trained over three million Nigerians, including two million youths and one million MSMEs, in essential digital skills needed for a technology-driven economy.
The ultramodern fashion hub, one of the largest in Nigeria, is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery to elevate local fashion production to global standards. The facility is managed by a private-sector entity with government oversight, ensuring efficiency and high production standards.
“Our vision is for this hub to become a reference point for excellence—not just for Borno State, but for the entire nation,” Shettima stated.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum expressed optimism about the project, emphasizing its potential to revitalize local businesses that have suffered due to insurgency and economic challenges.
“We believe this initiative will help rebuild livelihoods and restore hope to our people,” Zulum remarked.
The launch of the MSME Clinic and Fashion Hub underscores President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to diversifying Nigeria’s economy and empowering small businesses. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, and Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Sen. John Owen Eno, praised the initiative for its role in job creation and innovation.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on MSMEs and Job Creation, Mr. Tola Johnson, also commended the collaboration with Borno State, noting that the MSME Clinic fosters competitiveness and celebrates entrepreneurial excellence through an annual award ceremony on June 27.
As Nigeria continues expanding its MSME initiatives, the Maiduguri fashion hub is poised to serve as a model for economic revitalization, job creation, and innovation in the region.
