The Nigerian government has inaugurated an ultramodern fashion manufacturing hub in Maiduguri, Borno State, with an ambitious goal of creating over 48,000 jobs.
The initiative is part of the federal government’s broader strategy to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and boost economic growth.
During the launch on Tuesday, Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the administration’s commitment to fostering innovation, upskilling workers, and ensuring equitable wealth distribution, reiterating that a nation’s strength lies not in its natural resources but in the enterprise of its people.
As part of its ongoing N75 billion MSME Intervention Fund, the government also announced an unconditional grant of N300,000 for outstanding MSMEs participating in the 6th Expanded National MSME Clinics programme.
The fund, administered through the Bank of Industry, provides loans of up to N1 million at a 9% interest rate for 75,000 businesses nationwide.
VP Shettima, speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stated “Every business empowered is a step closer to eradicating poverty. We do not take for granted the critical role you play in driving the economy, particularly at the informal level.”
The MSME Clinic serves as a platform for entrepreneurs to interact directly with regulatory agencies, financial institutions, and business support organizations, helping them find solutions to business challenges.
In addition to the fashion hub, the Vice President announced the completion of the second cohort of the FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme in Borno State, a collaboration with Wema Bank. This initiative has trained over three million Nigerians—two million youths and one million MSMEs—in digital skills essential for success in a tech-driven economy.
The newly launched fashion hub is one of the largest ever established by the Nigerian government, equipped with modern facilities to support the fashion manufacturing industry in Borno.
“This facility is designed to boost production, achieve economies of scale, and meet global standards. We expect it to be managed by a competent private-sector entity, with government oversight,” Shettima stated.
The hub aims to serve as a center for excellence, training, and enterprise, not only for Borno but for the entire country.
Governor Babagana Zulum welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that it would revive business activities in Borno, which has suffered economic setbacks due to insurgency.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, and Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Sen. John Owen Eno, both lauded the project, highlighting its potential to diversify the economy and create sustainable jobs.
Tola Johnson, Senior Special Assistant to the President on MSMEs and Job Creation, also noted that states hosting the Vice President for MSME Clinics before the June 27 National MSME Awards qualify for special recognition.
With this initiative, the federal government continues to prioritize economic development, job creation, and empowerment of small businesses, reinforcing its vision for a more prosperous Nigeria.
