Jos, Plateau State – September 24, 2024: The Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency (PLASMIDA) marked a significant milestone in the state’s COVID-19 economic recovery efforts by distributing mobile phones to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) under the PLA-CARES Result Area 3 program. The event, which took place at Langfield, Rayfield, Jos, was part of the broader COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (CARES) initiative aimed at facilitating economic recovery and boosting business capacity post-pandemic.
Representing the Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Arch. Samuel Jatau emphasized the state’s commitment to supporting MSMEs as a core part of its recovery plan. He pointed out that over 5,000 beneficiaries had already received ₦50,000 grants through the initiative, while the latest distribution of mobile phones would benefit an additional 1,000 entrepreneurs. According to Jatau, these tools would be crucial in improving the productivity and market reach of small businesses.
Dr. Haggai Gutap, the technical administrative head of NG-CARES, praised the Plateau State Government for creating an enabling environment for MSMEs. He highlighted the importance of the PLA-CARES program in strengthening the capacities of small businesses and acknowledged the leadership of Hon. Bomkam Ali Wuyep, the Director General of PLASMIDA, in driving key initiatives that promote job creation and business expansion.
In his remarks, Hon. Wuyep emphasized that PLASMIDA’s primary goal is to help MSMEs bounce back from the negative impacts of COVID-19. He reiterated that the distributed mobile phones would be instrumental in enhancing communication, productivity, and overall business operations, thereby enabling beneficiaries to explore new markets and economic opportunities.
Other notable speakers included Mr. Olu Awolowo, the state chairman of the National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), and Engr. Markus Pam, CEO of Pantonics, both of whom commended the Plateau State Government and PLASMIDA for their efforts to support MSMEs. They underscored the importance of such initiatives in fostering sustainable economic growth.
Beneficiaries of the mobile phone distribution expressed their appreciation for the assistance, noting how the devices would significantly enhance their business operations and improve their ability to engage with customers in the digital economy.
The mobile phone distribution exercise underscores PLASMIDA’s commitment to empowering small businesses and contributing to the state’s overall economic recovery. The event marked another successful chapter in the implementation of the PLA-CARES initiative, which continues to provide relief and growth opportunities for businesses across Plateau State.
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