Charles Odii, the Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), is empowering small businesses by providing N50,000 grants to one million entrepreneurs. Under his leadership, SMEDAN is working hard to ensure that small businesses not only survive but also grow, even during tough economic times. A recent N50 billion boost to small-scale businesses from the federal government highlights his commitment to this important cause.
Mr. Odii has praised this initiative, explaining that President Bola Tinubu’s allocation of N50 billion will benefit around one million small businesses, with each receiving N50,000. This financial support is designed to help these businesses grow and create wealth, contributing to Nigeria’s overall economic development and improving the lives of its citizens.
At a recent event in Asaba, Delta State, Odii met with small business owners, offering them training and financial support. He emphasized that this empowerment program is not about politics; it’s about fighting poverty, which affects everyone, regardless of their political background. Odii stated, “A hungry man is an angry man,” to show that addressing poverty can help prevent social unrest. His goal is to create a more stable society by supporting economic growth.
Odii also reassured the public that the grant distribution process is fair and not influenced by politics. He made it clear that the funds are meant for everyone who qualifies, not just members of a particular political party. To ensure fairness, the selection process is technology-driven, making sure that only deserving candidates receive the grants based on need and merit.
Collaboration between SMEDAN and state governments is key to the success of this program. Odii believes that empowering one small business owner can have a ripple effect, improving the lives of others in the community. His message, “When a small business grows, a family grows,” reflects his commitment to helping small businesses thrive.
The selection process for the grants is transparent and uses technology to reduce bias, making sure the right people receive support. This ensures the funds are used effectively to help those in need and build trust in the program.
Odii has already visited 14 states and plans to cover all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by the end of the year. His dedication to staying in touch with beneficiaries shows SMEDAN’s commitment to helping small businesses succeed across Nigeria.
Charles Odii’s leadership at SMEDAN is focused on empowering small businesses and reducing poverty. His fair and transparent approach to distributing grants is creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and fostering a more inclusive economy. By keeping politics out of the process, Odii ensures that the support reaches those who need it most, giving hope to small businesses across the country.
