APC National Chairman Disburses N280m Grants to Over 1,400 MSMEs in Plateau State

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has disbursed grants and equipment worth over N280 million to more than 1,400 micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises in Plateau State, in a move aimed at boosting grassroots economic development.

The intervention, carried out in Jos under the Renewed Hope Agenda, attracted key stakeholders including Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who was represented by his deputy, Mrs. Josephine Piyo. The selection process for beneficiaries was conducted digitally by the Jos Business School in collaboration with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to ensure transparency and merit.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Yilwatda described the initiative as a shift toward people-driven economic growth, emphasizing the importance of empowering small businesses as a catalyst for national development. He noted that even small-scale contributions can create significant impact when properly harnessed.

The APC chairman linked the programme to the economic vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly the ambition of building a $1 trillion economy. He stressed that sustained investment in infrastructure remains central to achieving this goal.

Yilwatda highlighted ongoing federal projects across transport, energy, and logistics sectors, noting that such developments are laying the groundwork for accelerated economic growth. He specifically referenced the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway as a strategic project expected to enhance connectivity and commerce.

He also revealed that the Federal Government has approved the upgrade of the Jos Airport into an international cargo hub. According to him, the project is expected to create direct export opportunities for farmers and producers in Plateau State, thereby strengthening agricultural value chains.

Urging beneficiaries to embrace entrepreneurship, Yilwatda noted that reliance on government employment is gradually declining. He encouraged recipients to focus on wealth creation, innovation, and sustainability in their respective ventures.

He further disclosed that beneficiaries would undergo performance evaluations after six months and one year to assess their progress. Metrics such as business growth, financial discipline, and sustainability will determine eligibility for additional support and partnerships.

Governor Mutfwang, through his deputy, commended the initiative as a strategic complement to the state’s economic agenda. He advised beneficiaries to use the grants strictly for business expansion, warning against diverting the funds for consumption.

Earlier, the Director-General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Hon. Ezekiel Gomos, explained that the selection process attracted about 48,000 applications nationwide.

After rigorous screening, over 1,400 businesses were chosen based on viability and growth potential, with grants ranging from N100,000 to N1 million, alongside equipment such as tricycles, sewing machines, and Point of Sale systems to support operations and ensure immediate economic impact.

According to the breakdown, the cash allocation includes 60 people receiving N1m each, 300 getting N200,000 each, and 900 receiving N100,000.