NASME Delta Chapter Seeks Government Support For MSMEs Growth

The Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME) Delta Chapter, is poised to partner with the state government in a bid to make the state a hub for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) growth.

The state chairperson of the association, Lady Judith Ojevwe Nwachukwu, disclosed this on Wednesday following a meet with the Delta State Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Samuel Oligida, to discuss collaboration opportunities.

Lady Nwachukwu who led a delegation of officials of NASME to the commissioner’s office, said that with NASME’s restructuring and new executive board in place, the association is ready to drive MSMEs growth in the state.

She said that by partnering with the state government, NASME aims to establish a state secretariat, cooperative society, business school, and skills acquisition programs which are part of its plans and objectives for 2025.

“These initiatives will provide MSMEs with access to funding, business support services, and market opportunities, ultimately contributing to the state’s economic growth”, she said in an address delivered during the courtesy visit to the commissioner.

She said that NASME Delta State Chapter has been in existence for over a decade but has recently undergone restructuring to build a stronger and more viable presence in the state.

Lady Nwachukwu said that joining NASME offers numerous benefits as a leading voice for MSMEs in Nigeria and West Africa, including advocacy and representation, networking opportunities, capacity building and training, market access, access to funding, business support services among others.

The new executive board, according to her, has already begun engaging with key stakeholders, including the Olu of Warri, DESOPADEC, and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council as the Bank of Industries (BoI).

She said that the association is seeking general support, partnerships, and financial assistance from the state government to achieve its objectives and promote the growth of MSMEs in the State.

Giving a brief history of the association, Nwachukwu said NASME was registered in 1996 as a Business Membership Organization (BMO), to coordinate and foster the promotion of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria.

“NASME is the only leading Nigerian Private Sector-led BMO affiliated to the World Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (WASME) enjoying consultative status with the United Nations.

“NASME is equally being assisted through strategic collaborations with UNIDO, UNDP, IFC, Federal Ministries, Several Embassies and Bilateral Chambers of Commerce on its various projects and programs. We are in the 36 states including Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“NASME provides a comprehensive support system designed to help MSMEs thrive and succeed in a competitive business environment”