Niger Delta Micro Small Medium Enterprise (NDMSME) on Wednesday gave business support grants to young entrepreneurs in Bayelsa.
The fifth edition of the grants titled Enhancing the Role of MSME’s as Drivers for Sustainable Growth and Innovation held at Pee’s Hub Opolo Yenegoa Bayelsa capital.
Ochuko Richard CEO Dear Consultant, Blessing Asokomeh CEO Tak Hair Academy and Ala Vanessa CEO Ala Gaps all got the sum of one million naira each as a start up pack to grow their businesses.
Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei Secretary to Bayelsa State Government who represented Gov Douye Diri of Bayelsa said that with the world population of about 7.5 billion people resources of the earth are diminishing, meaning things are getting worse only those who act, work smart can survive.
Ayawei traced the historical trajectory of industrial revolutions and noted that the current dispensation is powered by knowledge, Artificial Intelligence, Internet, biotechnology amongst others.
He explained that only people who are able to create order amidst chaos can survive, urging entrepreneurs managing businesses to be intentional to create such order.
Ayawei stated that in recent years the Bayelsa government has been supporting MSME’s to foster the culture of entrepreneurship.
Mr. Moses Siasia Chairman Heritage Group and founder Niger Delta MSME’s said wealth is not about the amount of money you have, nor the properties or material things acquired, but that wealth is about the amount of lives you are able to touch.
Sissia emphasized that he has empowered critical young business owners across the Niger Delta over the years.
He explained that the feat was achieved through partnerships and collaboration with the Federal Government intervention and bank loans to support youths in entrepreneurship.
“We have given over 650 grants to support young business people across Niger Delta, these 650 businesses that we supported have created over 20,000 jobs for our people.
“These ordinary men and women would have joined social vices or involved in drug abuse,” Siasia said.
He observed that young people hold the keys to the future and destiny of the region lies in their hands.
He urged them to continue to work constructively to bring that change needed in the Niger region, calling all hands to be on deck.