The Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME) has initiated a strategic partnership with the Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA) aimed at accelerating the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and strengthening the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The partnership was unveiled during a courtesy visit by the leadership of NASME to the management of MEDA, following the agency’s growing reputation for driving enterprise development and supporting the expansion of small businesses across Cross River State.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of NASME, Cross River State Chapter, Mr. Declan Ogar, said the association remained committed to promoting the growth, development and sustainability of MSMEs through advocacy, capacity building and strategic partnerships.
He described the proposed collaboration with MEDA as a significant step toward creating a more resilient and competitive business environment, expressing confidence that the partnership would open up new opportunities for entrepreneurs and enhance enterprise development across the state.
According to Ogar, the alliance will combine the strengths of both organisations to support innovation, improve access to business development services and strengthen the capacity of small businesses to contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.
Responding, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of MEDA, Mr. Great Ogban, described the partnership as a timely initiative that aligns with the agency’s mandate of empowering entrepreneurs and expanding economic opportunities for residents.
Ogban said the collaboration would increase access to critical opportunities for local enterprises, including capacity-building programmes, financing opportunities, networking platforms and market linkages.
He noted that beyond supporting individual businesses, the partnership is expected to stimulate economic growth, increase the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and improve the livelihoods of Cross River residents through sustainable enterprise development.
The MEDA Director-General reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to working with credible institutions and development partners to build a vibrant MSME sector capable of driving job creation, wealth generation and inclusive economic development.
By Kingsley Agim
