Abuja: The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has initiated a significant financial empowerment programme for selected cooperatives in 21 states across Nigeria. Mr. Charles Odii, SMEDAN’s Director-General, disclosed this in a statement by Mr. Moshood Lawal, Head of Corporate Affairs, on Wednesday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative seeks to enhance the production capacities of cooperatives predominantly owned by women and people living with disabilities (PLWD). This programme, encompassing comprehensive training and financial assistance, is crafted to address challenges faced by these groups in accessing finance and establishing sustainable businesses.
Mr. Odii emphasized that by empowering these cooperatives, SMEDAN is committed to fostering economic growth, promoting inclusivity, and reducing poverty. The selected cooperatives will receive financial support to boost their production capabilities and ensure business sustainability. Participants will undergo extensive training in business management, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship skills.
The programme prioritizes women-owned and disability-led cooperatives, promoting diversity and equal opportunities. Mr. Odii noted that the agency is dedicated to supporting the growth and development of small and medium enterprises in Nigeria, focusing on inclusivity and sustainability.
The programme is scheduled to take place from April 15 to April 17 in the states of Enugu, Bayelsa, Zamfara, Kwara, Gombe, Osun, Ondo, Plateau, Kaduna, Bauchi, Kebbi, Katsina, Akwa Ibom, Sokoto, Taraba, Nassarawa, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Abia, Yobe, and Cross Rivers. At the conclusion of the engagement, each cooperative will be connected with indigenous Business Development Service Providers in their respective states to guide them in adopting modern managerial practices.