By Praise Chinecherem
Anambra state Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo says the state ranks first in ease of doing business in Southern Nigeria and seventh nationwide.
Soludo gave the revelation during a high-profile Summit by Anambra State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Committee, through the Anambra State Small Business Agency (ASBA) and Anambra State Investment, Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA).
The summit themed ” Financing the Future: Expanding Credit Opportunities for SMEs in Anambra State” aimed at expanding credit opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Soludo, represented by Commissioner for Industry, Mr. Christian Udechukwu praised the state’s recent national recognition as the best and most SME-friendly state in the South-East.
He revealed that over 450 SMEs have benefited from financial support through ASBA and the Ministry of Industry.
“This summit is crucial to raising awareness about available funding and showcasing the state government’s efforts in infrastructure to support SME growth.
While hinting that the state is building the Anambra Mixed-Use Industrial City to provide a hub for SMEs and large industries, the governor said the vision is to create a cluster where innovation and excellence in industrial development thrive, reinforcing Anambra’s status as a leading commercial and industrial hub in Africa.
Managing Director of ANSIPPA, Mr. Mark Okoye emphasized that the summit provided a platform for dialogue between the private and public sector while explaining that the initiative supports the state’s action plan on enabling a better business environment.
“About 150 SMEs attended to learn more about funding opportunities from agencies like SMEDAN, the Bank of Industry (BOI), commercial banks, and even the stock exchange.
“Both the public and private sectors must work to improve access to theses credit opportunities,” he added.
Earlier, State Manager Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Engr. Chito Onuzulike stressed the need for greater awareness among SMEs regarding available financing options.
“There are funds available, but many businesses are either unaware or believe the funds are inaccessible to them. This summit aims to change that perception,” she noted.
Onuzulike reaffirmed SMEDAN’s commitment to guiding SMEs to available financial resources in partnership with the state government through ASBA.
Also, a participant, Dr. Amaechi Nwachukwu, expressed concerns over challenges faced by SMEs in accessing finance, noting that many financial institutions prioritize established businesses.
He called for more inclusive policies from the banking sector to help struggling businesses access funds without unnecessary delays.
The summit concluded with hopes for more frequent sessions to address ongoing concerns and foster growth for SMEs in Anambra State.
