In a significant move to bolster the local economy, the Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency (PLASMIDA) has announced the empowerment of nano businesses through an operational grant facilitated by the Ng-Cares program. This initiative, funded by the World Bank and supported by the Plateau State Government, aims to provide much-needed financial support to small enterprises in the region.
The distribution of application forms for the grant took place on Monday, May 20, 2024, at PLASMIDA’s office on Plot 760 Liberty Boulevard, Jos, Plateau State. The event was led by the Director General of PLASMIDA, Mr. Bomkam Ali Wuyep, alongside his dedicated team.
In his welcoming speech, Mr. Wuyep emphasized the strategic focus of Governor Barr Caleb Manasseh Mufwang’s administration on human capital development and the industrialization of Plateau State. He reiterated PLASMIDA’s core mission of poverty alleviation through job promotion, skill acquisition, and the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“According to the Green Cap policy of His Excellency, one of our major strategy areas is human capital development and the industrialization of Plateau,” Mr. Wuyep stated. He outlined PLASMIDA’s multifaceted strategy, which includes facilitating access to finance, enhancing market linkages, and implementing labor market intelligence and skill acquisition programs.
Mr. Wuyep also announced the resumption of the Result Area 3 Covid-19 Assured and Recovery Program, which had been on hold since September. This program aims to drive economic recovery and enhance the capabilities of businesses in Plateau State through two key Disbursement-Linked Indicators (DLIs): the provision of grants and the supply of IT equipment to SMEs to boost their market presence.
“We have just received funding for the grant,” Mr. Wuyep explained, “and that is why we call on all of you seated to see how SMEs and small businesses can benefit from this grant. We call you all here for transparency and effectiveness.”
He proceeded to explain the application process in detail and encouraged attendees to fill out the forms carefully.
Mr. Wuyep also took the opportunity to promote the newly launched Plateau Job Center. This initiative offers digital literacy skills, free skill acquisition training in partnership with tech companies, career counseling, and more. He urged participants to take full advantage of these resources to further their professional and business development.
Dr. Ishaya Joseph Nubuya, Director General of the Jos Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (JOCCIMA), delivered a goodwill message on behalf of all associations present. He praised Mr. Wuyep and the PLASMIDA team for their continuous support of small businesses, recognizing the critical role these enterprises play in expanding the local economy.
Dr. Nubuya encouraged Mr. Wuyep to continue his commendable work, assuring him of the participants’ ongoing prayers and support.
The event concluded with a certificate presentation by Mr. Alfred Baker, Chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Plateau State Chapter, adding a formal and celebratory touch to the occasion.
PLASMIDA’s initiative marks a significant step towards economic recovery and development in Plateau State. By providing financial aid and essential resources to nano businesses, the agency not only fosters entrepreneurship but also strengthens the local economy. The collaborative efforts of PLASMIDA, the World Bank, and the Plateau State Government highlight a promising future for SMEs in the region.
