The Plateau state Microfinance Development Agency PLASMIDA says it has empowered over one hundred thousand micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the state since its establishment in 2016.
The out going Pioneer Director General of the Agency Mr Haggai Gutap stated this while handing over to the new DG of the Agency at its Headquarters in Jos.
He said the enterprises include road and transport sector, leather works, agro processing, fashion and design as well as building construction among others.
Gutap said the establishment and activities of PLASMIDA over the years has changed the narrative in Plateau, especially from an acclaimed civil service state to a business haven , noting that it has developed skills, provided financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, linkage to finance and markets and provided coaching and mentoring services to entrepreneurs of the state.
He said before they came on board, the MSMEs didn’t have an organized platform to carry out its activities, but with the coming of Governor Simon Lalong on board that has been actualized and are now able to match the MSMEs according to clusters.
He said over the years, the Agency has been able to learn on how to build frontiers and do business with other organizations, leading into partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria, Bank of industry and other regulatory agencies that have assisted in actualizing the ease of doing business in the State.
He said based on experience, the State has consecutively produced outstanding SMEs in Nigeria, and expressed the believe that the Agency will soon be recognized globally because of its achievement.
He appreciated Governor Simon Lalong for the opportunity to serve and also applauded the management and staff of the organization for their unflinching support and challenge them to extend same to his successor.
While receiving the mantle of leadership, incoming DG Bomkam Wuyep assured that he would build on the foundation laid by his predecessor to move the agency to high standard.
He charged other management staff of the organization to redouble their zeal, dedication and determination as the fight against poverty and unemployment is beyond lips service.
Mr Gutap has been appointed as the Technical Administrative Head, State COVID 19 action and economic stimulus coordinating Unit.
Josiah Buzun