Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has approved a N1 billion grant to support 9,403 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Biu and Hawul Local Government Areas. This initiative is part of the government’s broader economic empowerment program aimed at strengthening local businesses, reducing poverty, and creating employment opportunities in the region.
Boosting Small Businesses and Job Creation
During the official disbursement event held in Biu, Governor Zulum reaffirmed his commitment to empowering small businesses and promoting youth entrepreneurship. He emphasized that the financial support is meant to provide capital for small-scale business owners, enabling them to expand their ventures and contribute to the economic growth of Borno State.
Grant Distribution:
- ₦603 million allocated to 5,603 entrepreneurs in Biu
- ₦397 million designated for 2,000 businesses in Hawul
- 1,800 youth and vulnerable families to benefit from direct financial assistance
Governor Zulum urged the beneficiaries to invest the funds wisely and ensure they use them to grow sustainable businesses. To further extend support, he instructed the Borno State Social Investment Management Programme (BOSIMP) to identify an additional 2,000 vulnerable youth for future financial aid initiatives.
Infrastructure Development for Workers
Alongside the financial grants, the governor also laid the foundation for the construction of 600 new housing units across five locations in the state. These homes are meant to improve living conditions for teachers and healthcare workers, ensuring they have stable accommodations.
Breakdown of Housing Projects:
- 100 units in Biu, Magumeri, Hawul, and Gubio for teachers
- 200 units at the Borno State University Teaching Hospital for healthcare workers
The housing estates will include essential amenities such as clinics, roads, drainage systems, and sports centers to enhance the quality of life for the occupants.
Commitment to Workers’ Welfare
Governor Zulum emphasized that his administration remains dedicated to improving the welfare of public sector employees, particularly teachers and healthcare professionals. He stated that providing stable housing and economic empowerment initiatives is a key strategy in rebuilding Borno State’s economy and fostering long-term development.
Previous Financial Assistance Initiatives
In July 2024, Governor Zulum disbursed ₦450 million to support 45,000 widows and vulnerable women across the state. This initiative was designed as a relief measure for families who lost their sources of income due to the Boko Haram insurgency.
Governor Zulum clarified that these financial aids are not intended to create dependency on government assistance but to provide a foundation for individuals to rebuild their livelihoods and regain financial stability.
With these continuous economic and social empowerment programs, the Borno State government aims to create lasting solutions for its residents and stimulate long-term economic progress in the region.