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NDCCITMA Drives Grassroots Economic Growth Across Niger Delta with ₦1.5 Billion Support Scheme - Livenewsguns

 



By Ifiokabasi Abia


The Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) has rolled out a ₦1.5 billion empowerment initiative to support over 2,000 entrepreneurs and small businesses across the Niger Delta region.


Through this ambitious program, beneficiaries will receive grants and soft loans ranging from ₦200,000 for nano enterprises to ₦3 million and above for micro and small businesses, in a bid to strengthen local economies and stimulate sustainable growth.



Covering Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Rivers, Edo, and Delta States, the initiative underscores NDCCITMA’s firm commitment to inclusive economic development and poverty reduction through grassroots entrepreneurship.


Speaking during the official flag-off ceremony of the Economic Development and Investment Partnership Scheme held at the Technology Incubation Centre, Uyo, the Vice Chairman and one   of the  Directors of NDCCITMA, Akwa Ibom State, Engr. Dr. Iniobong Esuene, reaffirmed the Chamber’s mission to empower small-scale business owners with affordable and accessible capital.



“At this point, let’s rewrite our stories — not of militancy or chaos, but of progress and productivity,”

— Engr. Iniobong Esuene, NDCCITMA Director


According to Dr. Esuene, the funding intervention offers one of the most favorable terms in Nigeria’s financial space — 8% interest rate repayable over 12 to 18 months — structured to help entrepreneurs build resilience and achieve long-term sustainability.



“We want beneficiaries to put the money to productive use, grow their businesses, and create wealth for the next generation,” he added.


Representing the Chairman of the Uyo Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (UYOCCITMA), Dr. Emmanuel Akpanobong, Mrs. Susan Ukoabasi praised NDCCITMA for its community-centered initiative. She urged recipients to utilize the funds wisely and ensure timely repayment so others can benefit from the revolving scheme.



In the same vein, the Chairman of the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Dr. Ime Edoho, applauded NDCCITMA for its responsiveness to the economic challenges faced by small business owners.


“This intervention will cushion the harsh effects of the current economy and help MSMEs remain afloat. NASME is proud to be part of this transformative initiative,” Dr. Edoho remarked.



Also lending his voice, Prince Offiong Ben, representing Rural Integrated Food Growers (INTERGROW), described the scheme as a bold and strategic move to boost agricultural productivity and improve rural livelihoods.


“This initiative brings real support to farmers, processors, and distributors. NDCCITMA deserves commendation for starting from the grassroots — from the nano level — and scaling upward,” he said.



The Manager of the Technology Incubation Centre, Uyo, Mrs. Iniobong Elshadai, hailed the initiative as a milestone achievement that would create jobs, drive industrial growth, and promote sustainable partnerships across Akwa Ibom State.


“We appreciate NDCCITMA’s vision to carry the burden of industrial development and provide genuine opportunities for entrepreneurs. Today’s collaboration reflects transparency and shared commitment,” she noted.


The Akwa Ibom State NDCCITMA leadership team comprises Chief Edet Jonathan Ekwere, Mrs. Affiong Israel Ibanga, and Engr. Iniobong Esuene, vice chairman of NDCCITMA.


The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of cheques to selected beneficiaries, officially marking the commencement of NDCCITMA’s ₦1.5 billion economic empowerment program — a bold step toward reshaping the economic future of the Niger Delta region.

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