By Kehinde Erin
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has kicked off the distribution of 10,000 free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration certificates, to unregistered micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the state.
At the 2025 Kogi State MSME and Financial Inclusion Conference, Governor Ahmed Ododo unveiled the ambitious initiative aimed at revolutionising the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Governor said that the initiative will seeks to formalize informal businesses, unlock access to financial resources, and ultimately fortify Kogi State’s position as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Deputy Governor, Salifu Oyibo, who spoke on behalf of the Governor, highlighted the state’s broader strategy to drive economic inclusion.
To achieve this goal, the state government introduced several complementary programs. These include the establishment of an MSME cooperative society, which will provide small business owners with access to shared resources and expertise.
Additionally, a talent hunt initiative will help identify and nurture young entrepreneurs, while the development of an MSME hub will offer a dedicated space for small businesses to thrive.
These programs are designed to provide small business owners with the necessary support to compete in the market.
Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment in Kogi State, where small enterprises can thrive.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration among financial institutions, development agencies, and private sector players to ensure the long-term sustainability and impact of his administration’s initiatives.
Mohammad Okeji, Managing Director of the Kogi Enterprise Development Agency (KEDA), stressed the need for a collaborative approach to empowering small businesses.
He stressed that engaging industry leaders, policymakers, and financial institutions is crucial in providing MSMEs with the necessary support to thrive. “As the primary agency responsible for promoting entrepreneurship in Kogi State, KEDA is committed to creating opportunities for MSMEs, facilitating access to finance, and offering technical assistance to ensure their long-term sustainability and growth,” he’ said
Okeji, also revealed plans to conduct a thorough evaluation of the program in the coming year. Adding that the assessment will gauge the initiative’s effectiveness in stimulating job creation and driving economic growth.
The findings will inform future interventions, ensuring that small businesses continue to receive tailored support, including access to low-interest startup capital from developmental banks. This data-driven approach will enable KEDA to refine its strategies, ultimately enhancing the program’s impact and sustainability.
