Former Jigawa governor seeks establishment of more schools in Birnin-Kudu

First elected governor of Jigawa, Ali Sa’ad, has called for the establishment of more schools in remote areas of his hometown, Birnin-Kudu Local Government Area of Jigawa.
Mr Sa’ad made the call on Sunday during the Jigawa state

citizens engagement programme, introduced by Gov. Namadi administration held in Birnin-Kudu.

He observed that there were remote areas in Birnin-Kudu where children don’t go to school because of the distance between their communities and the schools available in other communities.

The former governor also appealed to the state government to establish dispensaries in all the nooks and crannies of the state, to enable citizens reap the dividends of democracy and promote quality healthcare delivery.

According to him, there is also the need for government to complete abandoned road projects that link communities, in order to boost businesses and ease access in the area.

On his part, Gov. Umar Namadi commended residents of Birnin-Kudu for submitting a document with their demands to the government.

He said, “This local government has broken a record by taking time to document their demands and submitted them to us today. We will surely study them and fulfill their wishes.”

He further appealed to residents of Jigawa to provide feedback to the government on development projects at all levels for proper monitoring.

The commissioner for information, youth, sport and culture, Sagir Musa, said the programme aimed at ensuring transparency in governance.

Mr Musa revealed that the Namadi administration’s quest for inclusion, initiated the programme to promote accountability in all political offices.

“This programme aims at providing the citizens a platform to interact and seek answers to pressing issues from their elected officials,” he explained.

Residents of the area have so far commended the administration for executing different projects in the area.

One of the residents, Umar Baba, appreciated the efforts of the governor in completing abandoned projects in the area.

Also, Abdulbaki Aminu, said the administration needed to do more in youth empowerment in the area, to reduce the high population of unemployed youths.

(NAN)

Iron Work made easy.

NYSC, SMEDAN Partner For Robust Corps Empowerment

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost Corps Members’ capacity for job creation and youth empowerment.
The agreement was formalized at the SMEDAN Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria.
According to NYSC Director General Brigadier General Yushua Ahmed, this partnership will provide Corps Members with greater access to funds to finance their business ideas.

He emphasized that NYSC mobilizes over 400,000 Corps Members annually, equipping them with bankable business ideas and vocational skills to drive entrepreneurship and economic growth.

“This means, providing them with start-up capital is a sure way of improving Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product” he asserted.

On his part, the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of SMEDAN, Mr Charles Odii lauded Brigadier General Ahmed for his passion towards Corps Members’ empowerment.
He said the agency would leave no stoned unturned in pursuing Federal Government’s agenda on job creation.
Odii stated further that the MoU would empower Corps Members to fund their business ideas as SMEDAN aims to create 50,000 entrepreneurs in a year.
“Corps Members are graduates and if they are well trained, they will train and also empower other youths”, he added.

Charles Odii: The Mastermind Behind Nigeria’s SME Revolution

In a world where innovation and progress are the hallmarks of success, one man is redefining the landscape of Nigeria’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Charles Odii, the dynamic leader of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), is orchestrating a transformative revolution that is empowering entrepreneurs, creating jobs, and driving national growth.

In Charles Odii, the spirit of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda comes alive. Like a master craftsman, Odii is meticulously shaping the building blocks of Nigeria’s economic future, one innovative initiative at a time, to create a vibrant tapestry of prosperity and progress.

With his visionary approach and dedication, Odii has been instrumental in unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s SMEs. His trailblazing strategies and initiatives have been yielding remarkable results, drawing international attention and accolades. Under Odii’s leadership, SMEDAN has evolved into a powerhouse of economic transformation, providing critical support to SMEs and nurturing an ecosystem that inspires entrepreneurship, fosters creativity, and stimulates job creation.
Recognising the imperative of clean energy, Odii has launched a groundbreaking solar-powered garment-making center in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This pioneering facility is designed to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs), providing them with free access to modern garment-making equipment and eliminating the burdens of power costs, machine purchases, and maintenance. Over 120 entrepreneurs benefit from this facility daily, leveraging sustainable and uninterrupted energy supply to drive their businesses forward.

Odii’s visionary approach extends beyond the center’s operations. He has forged strategic partnerships with NIPOST and God Is Good Logistics, offering SMEs discounted distribution rates of 15% and 20%, respectively. This enables seamless delivery of finished products across Nigeria, further amplifying the center’s impact. Indeed, Odii’s initiative is a shining example of his foresight and pragmatism, tackling the pressing challenges faced by SMEs in Nigeria. By providing a sustainable and efficient energy solution, he is unlocking the potential of entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and contributing to a cleaner, greener future.

Odii has launched a groundbreaking solar-powered garment-making center, which has been replicated in Katsina and Osun States, with plans to expand to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. This center creates 700 direct and indirect jobs daily, mitigating unemployment and youth restiveness. Odii’s vision is to solidify SMEs as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, positioning the country competitively within the African Continental Free Trade Area. His efforts have already created over 15,000 jobs and facilitated over 7 billion naira in funding for SMEs. He has also secured a 5 Billion Naira Single-Digit Interest Loan through Sterling Bank to empower businesses.

Through his initiatives, Odii has revitalised economic activities in rural areas by providing N50, 000 as Conditional Grant Scheme (CGS) into Nano businesses, creating jobs and supporting families. He has collaborated with State Governments, including Anambra and Enugu, to provide 1 billion naira into MSMEs in each State under a matching fund agreement, further empowering entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth. Odii’s commitment to SME development is evident in his efforts to create a conducive business environment, providing access to finance, markets, and capacity building. His vision for Nigeria’s SME sector is inspiring, and his impact will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.

Odii’s launch of the Green Energy and Climate Change Desk has supported displaced businesses and promoted green energy solutions, addressing environmental challenges impacting businesses. To foster a motivated workforce, Odii constructed a state-of-the-art secretariat with modern work hubs, dedicated staff, and facilities such as a textile and garment hub for fashion businesses and a woodwork and furniture facility for artisans.

He also launched the SMEDAN Undergraduate Internship Program (SUIP) at Baze University, providing students with real-world business experience and resources to start, continue, and scale their businesses. Recognising the importance of women in national growth and development, Odii established the Women and Youth Desk Initiative, granting direct access to opportunities designed for women entrepreneurs.

Furthermore, he created the MSME CLINIC, a weekly one-stop shop where entrepreneurs, regulators, and experienced SME development professionals collaborate to provide mentorship and solutions. He has developed various initiative aimed at promoting farming and food production at the family level, encouraging Nigerians to cultivate a culture of gardening and healthy eating from the comfort of their own homes in consonance with the EveryHomeAGarden of the First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

Charles Odii’s creativity knows no bounds, he has transformed and equipped the workforce into a mobile digitally transformed workplace of efficient and effective workplace, thereby engendering higher productivity, progress tracking, with various social clubs that promote healthy lifestyle, focus, and instil a sense of shared mission and peaceful co-existence.

Charles Odii is an enigma. A rare gem and a replica of what President wanted in the youths of our country. He has shown resilience. He is ubiquitous, touching akll facets and segments of the life of the nation, demonstrating capacity and tenacity of purpose, and proving eloquently and incontrovertibly what happens when innovation meets with passion and both are wed-locked to opportunity. He is indeed the legendary Archimedes’ of our time and have found the answer to national development and economic growth.

Imagine a Nigeria where entrepreneurship is the engine that drives growth, innovation, and prosperity. A Nigeria where small businesses thrive, creating jobs, wealth, and opportunities for all. This is the Nigeria that Charles Odii envisions, and he’s working tirelessly to make it a reality. Through his groundbreaking initiatives, he’s empowering entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and unlocking the full potential of the SME sector.

In the not-too-distant future, historians will look back on Charles Odii’s legacy and marvel at the transformative impact he had on Nigeria’s economy. They’ll tell stories of how he ignited a spark that fueled a revolution in entrepreneurship, innovation, and growth. And as they reflect on his remarkable journey, they’ll be reminded that even the smallest actions can have a profound impact when driven by vision, passion, and a commitment to creating a better future.

Ochonu is a public affairs analyst writing from Abuja.

OPS Businesses Lose N2.5trn to Administrative Bottlenecks – DG SMEDAN.

Members of the Organised Private Sector, including the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, and the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture have expressed worry over the N2.5tn annual losses by the business community to administrative bottlenecks.

The Director-General of SMEDAN, Mr Charles Odii, said the group plans to engage with the relevant agencies to streamline the processes required to address this anomaly.

Last week, the Federal Government through the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said the Nigerian business community was losing N2.5tn annually to delays and administrative bureaucratic bottlenecks.

He disclosed this in Lagos while speaking at the stakeholders’ forum on establishing the National Single Window.

Oyetola while quoting a report by the World Bank added that the cost of doing business in Nigeria was 40 per cent higher than what was obtainable in other West African countries.

“As highlighted by the World Bank, the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports can be up to 40 per cent higher than in other West African countries due to delays and administrative bottlenecks, leading to an estimated annual revenue loss of N2.5tn within the business community,” Oyetola said.

He, however, expressed hope that the implementation of the NSW could enhance efficiency, “potentially reducing these costs by at least 25 per cent.”

According to him, by streamlining operations, improving transparency, and minimising delays, the system not only drives cost savings but also strengthens overall trade facilitation.The former Osun State Governor mentioned that the cumulative impact across all areas, including reduced costs, enhanced efficiency, and greater transparency, ultimately contributes to the overall ease of doing business.

Reacting to this, the Director-General of the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, Mr Sola Obadimu, said, “The issue is self-explanatory; we need a more efficient processing procedure at the ports to hasten processing time such that people who are exporting perishable items, for example, can get to their destination on time.

“So that business can beat their deadlines so that the government can make more money and all these losses will be stopped. When the ports are efficient, it will yield more money to the government and businesses. If businesses conclude their transaction on time they will make more money.”

On his part, the SMEDAN DG, Odii, said, “At SMEDAN we are actively engaging relevant agencies and levels of government to streamline processes and create a more supportive environment for SMEs.”

He said one of the major initiatives of the group is the introduction of a reform-focused ranking system to encourage the adoption of policies and systems that ease business operations, reduce bureaucratic delays, and improve service delivery for SMEs.

“This will help track and evaluate government agencies on their efforts to remove bottlenecks that hinder Small and Medium Enterprises’ growth,” he stated.

Odii added that the group recognises that beyond policy reforms, SMEs must also be equipped to navigate regulatory frameworks and leverage digital solutions that simplify compliance.

“Addressing both structural challenges and SME capacity gaps, we are working to ensure that Nigerian businesses can grow with fewer constraints, contribute meaningfully to the economy, and compete effectively in both local and global markets,” Odii stated.

SOURCE: The PUNCH

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SMEDAN empowers SMEs for export growth through national single window reform

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) is stepping up efforts to help Nigerian SMEs tap into global trade opportunities by providing targeted support under the National Single Window (NSW) Project.

SMEDAN shared this commitment on its official X handle, highlighting the agency’s plans to equip small businesses with the necessary tools to overcome trade bottlenecks, streamline export processes, and boost global competitiveness.

With Nigeria losing an estimated N2.5 trillion annually due to inefficient trade procedures, the NSW Project aims to eliminate delays, simplify trade compliance, and create a seamless export system.

Recognizing this opportunity, SMEDAN is training SMEs on export readiness, trade compliance, and digital trade platforms to ensure they benefit fully from the new system.

Through capacity-building programs and hands-on training, SMEDAN is positioning small businesses for smoother trade operations, increased market access, and stronger participation in the global economy. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to leverage these initiatives to scale their businesses and compete internationally.

SMEDAN Encourages Small Businesses to Formalize for Funding Access and Legal Recognition

#smedan
#SmedaGov

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The Councillor representing Enjema Ward 3 in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nasiru Yahaya, has rehabilitated another borehole in his ward located at Aliboko-Inye in his ward.

The councillor told Arewa PUNCH that he bore all the expenses of the borehole rehabilitation from his December salary.

Our correspondent reports that this is the second borehole the Councillor will rehabilitate since his election during the last October 19, local government elections.

The borehole, which was managed by the community association, broke down about two years ago.

When contacted after the rehabilitation of the boreholes at Ogane-Inye and Ojuaka-Inye last month, the Councillor sent engineers to Aliboko-Inye to access the level of damage and what it would take to repair it to provide water for that part of his ward, especially for the festive period.

Mallam Yahaya further explained to Arewa PUNCH that
the report of the engineers indicated that the plant needed to be serviced and the replacement of the pumping machine along with the reconnection and laying of some broken pipes.

The councillor immediately released funds for the rehabilitation as soon as he received his salary for December.

In a remark after the rehabilitation, Mallam Yahaya said that what he was doing was not a show off but to do what he could within his own resources before drawing the attention of the Chairman of Ankpa Local Government , Engineer Ademu Muhammed Yahaya and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to the numerous needs of his ward.

The Gago of Aliboko-Inye, Chief Damale, said his joy knew no bounds as he least expected that the Councillor would respond so quickly to repair works needed for the borehole.

He vowed that the residents of the area would be vigilant henceforth to protect the borehole from vandals.

Similarly, APC supporters from the community praised the Councillor for the gesture, saying that he has made them proud.

They said the rehabilitation of the borehole was an impetus for continued support for the party.

Credit: Punch Newspapers

https://punchng.com/kogi-councillor-repairs-community-boreholes-with-december-salary/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHkkyNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHXYg53LhaezvmA2aCpAykmJ0-AiUCG4GPOSnNAY3s0LBXiRbbTvFfLKghQ_aem_5C1jMEBcQd3mRjvyQ-sjKg

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Osun State strengthens partnership with SMEDAN on MSME development

The Executive Governor of Osun State, His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke has made a commitment to deepen the existing relationship with SMEDAN under the leadership of @the_c.o.o. This was made known during the 4 day Opportunity Fair which held in the Oshogbo, the State Capital.

Dr. Adeleke commended the numerous innovations introduced by Mr Charles Odii in boosting the global competitiveness of MSMEs in Nigeria. The Governor further expressed his commitment to enter into an MOU with SMEDAN to birth a single digit interest funding facility for MSMEs in the State. This he said, will go a long way in accelerating economic growth in the state.

The Director General @the_c.o.o while speakkng about the G.R.O.W. strategy of SMEDAN, appreciated the Executive Governor for his several exploits in urban renewal. He informed the good people of the state that "poverty has no political affiliation, hence the need to collaborate across all divisive lines to support the growth of MSMEs".

The event was attended by numerous members of the state cabinet led by the Deputy Governor as well as the Commissioner for Commerce and Industries.

#hereforprosperity
#GROWNigerian
#SMEDAN

Congratulations on Your Elevation to the Rank of Air Commodore.
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Congratulations Air Commodore Ishaq Yakubu.
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Congratulations Brother Suleiman Sanusi (SS).
Join on 26th December, 2014 at Zaria Road Ankpa, Kogi State Inshallah.