Vice President Kashim Shettima launches the Calabar ICT hub for MSMEs, driving technology innovation in Cross River State.
The ICT facility, located in the refurbished State Library Complex, is designed as a hub for digital training, innovation and business development. Shettima described the project as part of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to back ventures capable of redefining the future of work, skills and industries, noting that technology has become essential for competitiveness.
ICT Hub for MSMEs to drive skills and innovation
Shettima said the hub will enable entrepreneurs to access shared infrastructure, develop technical skills and connect with regulators and financiers. He framed it as a strategic element in an MSME support ecosystem aimed at reducing operational barriers and fostering innovation-driven enterprises across Nigeria.
“We are here in pursuit of our promise to build an ecosystem that eases the struggles of entrepreneurs, provides infrastructure to fuel creativity, and unleashes the innovative spirit of our people,” the Vice President said during the commissioning.
Expanded National MSME Clinics offer direct agency access
The commissioning was paired with the 8th Expanded National MSME Clinics in Calabar, where business operators engaged directly with agencies including the Corporate Affairs Commission, NAFDAC, the Bank of Industry and SMEDAN. Shettima said the clinics were created to deliver solutions in real time, cutting delays in registration, compliance and financing.
He also announced ₦250,000 unconditional grants for selected outstanding businesses at the event, adding that the Federal Government is committed to complementing infrastructure with targeted funding. These include a ₦75 billion MSME Intervention Fund, a ₦50 billion Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme for one million nano businesses, and a ₦75 billion Manufacturers Fund offering single-digit interest loans.
New Cally Air aircraft to strengthen regional routes
Shettima commissioned two new 100-seat Bombardier CRJ1000 regional jets for Cally Air, the Cross River State–owned airline. He said the aircraft “not only invite the world to the People’s Paradise but also make it a safe destination for investments,” underscoring their potential to improve tourism, trade and business travel.
The aircraft will operate from Margaret Ekpo International Airport, with officials stating that the expanded fleet will open additional domestic and regional routes, improving connectivity for businesses and visitors to the state.
State and federal collaboration on enterprise growth
Governor Bassey Otu pledged Cross River’s support for the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms, calling them measures that will build “a formidable economy that will stand the test of time.” He highlighted state initiatives to strengthen MSMEs, including access to shared facilities and advisory services.
Minister of Information Mohammed Idris reaffirmed the administration’s focus on supporting small businesses, while Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, described the clinics as a transformative step in addressing operational challenges faced by entrepreneurs.
Event draws high-level attendance
The commissioning attracted senior officials and legislators, including Senators Eteng Williams, Francis Fadahunsi and Florence Ita-Giwa; Deputy Governor Peter Odey; and Speaker of the State House of Assembly Elvert Ayambem. The Cross River Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency said the hub will serve as a lasting platform for skills training, networking and business development.
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Great Ogban Usetu, Director-General of MEDA, said the facility will host regular programmes such as vendor showcases, regulatory help desks and training workshops to sustain its relevance and ensure continued support for the MSME sector.
