MEDA & LGAs partner for MSME Data Capturing Through People-First Initiatives
In a significant step towards empowering local communities, the Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA) convened a strategic meeting with Special Assistants on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from all Local Government Areas (LGAs). The focus of the engagement was to collaboratively develop frameworks for the People First initiatives, specifically the One Local Government One Product (OLOP) initiative and the promotion of made-in-Cross River products at the grassroots level.
Essesien Edem, MEDA Board Chairman, underscored the critical role of this collaboration in accurately profiling local needs and assets. He emphasized that this foundational work would support the State government’s broader vision of transitioning from a civil servant-driven economy to a dynamic business ecosystem, starting within local communities. He encouraged the SAs to actively engage and apply their learnings to effectively replicate economic opportunities across their respective areas.
Great Ogban, Director-General of MEDA, lauded the commitment of the SAs to fostering MSME growth within their LGAs. He pointed to the State’s positive trajectory in bolstering the local economy through diverse support programs, including the federal Bank of Industry initiative. Ogban reiterated MEDA’s ongoing dedication to attracting resources and support to each LGA, in direct alignment with the People First philosophy of the current administration.
The interactive session saw the Special Assistants showcase the unique economic strengths of their LGAs and detail the proactive measures being undertaken by their respective Local Government Chairmen to capitalize on these potentials.
The event concluded with a strong encouragement for the SAs to take the lead in cultivating vibrant local economies through enhanced empowerment programs.
