Member representing Akoko South West Constituency II in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Tope Agbulu, was among key dignitaries who attended the 7th edition of the Expanded National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Clinic held in Akure on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
The high-profile event, themed “Ondo 2025,” took place at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, and had in attendance Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, as Special Guest of Honour.
In his keynote address, Vice President Shettima underscored the pivotal role of MSMEs in driving the country’s economic transformation, describing them as the backbone of the Nigerian economy. According to him, small businesses account for 90 percent of jobs in the country and must be supported to foster inclusive development.
“MSMEs are the foundation of sustainable national prosperity,” Shettima said. “They are essential to our efforts to reduce poverty and diversify the economy.”
He revealed that 65 MSMEs from Ondo State have already accessed funding under the Federal Government’s ₦75 billion intervention fund for small businesses. The Vice President also outlined key initiatives under the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including the nationwide planting of 100 million oil palm trees and a revival of cocoa production.
Hon. Agbulu, who was visibly impressed by the initiative, commended both the federal and state governments for their commitment to the development of small businesses.
He described the clinic as a timely and practical intervention for boosting local enterprise, particularly in underserved and rural areas.
“As lawmakers, we have a responsibility to ensure that this MSME drive reaches the grassroots,” Agbulu stated. “Akoko South West II is rich with entrepreneurs whose talents and ideas are waiting to be harnessed. With the right support, they can contribute meaningfully to our local and national economies.”
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, in his address, lauded the Vice President’s visit and reiterated his administration’s commitment to building an enabling environment for MSMEs through the OUR EASE Agenda, which aligns with the Federal Government’s economic vision.
The Governor also celebrated local entrepreneurs who have gained national recognition, including Denki Wire and Cables Ltd and Kay Classic Fashion—winners of the National MSME Awards for excellence in manufacturing and fashion, respectively.
The clinic brought together key stakeholders from government, industry, and the grassroots, all united in their commitment to empowering MSMEs as catalysts for job creation, innovation, and economic growth.
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