Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has officially received the Presidency's Most MSME-Friendly Governor Award, a national honour given to governors who have shown strong support for the growth of small businesses in their states. The recognition is another major milestone for the governor's administration and highlights Cross River's growing reputation as a business-friendly state.
The award was first presented during the 8th National MSME Awards organised by the Presidency. It was later formally handed over to Governor Otu during a meeting involving the Cross River State Government, the Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (CRSMEDA), and members of the Calabar Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (CALCCIMA).
Speaking after receiving the award, Governor Otu thanked the Presidency for recognising the efforts of his administration. He described the honour as a victory not only for his government but also for thousands of hardworking entrepreneurs, traders, artisans and business owners across Cross River State.
According to the governor, the award belongs to every small business owner who continues to work hard despite economic challenges. He praised their determination and said they remain the backbone of the state's economy by creating jobs, supporting families and contributing to development.
Governor Otu also reaffirmed his administration's commitment to creating more opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). He said his government will continue to introduce programmes that improve access to finance, encourage investment, build entrepreneurial skills and create a better environment for businesses to grow.
Officials who accompanied the award presentation said the recognition reflects the state government's deliberate efforts to strengthen entrepreneurship through policies aimed at empowering local businesses and attracting private sector investment.
The Presidency recognised Cross River because of the state's commitment to supporting MSMEs, which are widely regarded as the engine of economic growth and one of the biggest sources of employment in Nigeria. The award also coincided with activities marking the National MSME Awards and the celebration of World MSME Day.
With this latest recognition, Governor Otu joins the list of state leaders whose efforts in promoting enterprise development have been acknowledged at the national level. The award is expected to further boost investor confidence and encourage more entrepreneurs to establish and expand their businesses in Cross River State.
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