Moses Siasia, the founder of the Niger Delta Young Professionals, says Micro Small and Medium Enterprises remain critical to job creation and sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.

Mr Siasia stated this in a statement on Tuesday regarding the forthcoming fifth Niger Delta MSME Summit, scheduled to hold in Yenagoa on December 9.

He said the summit, expected to host more than 1,000 young entrepreneurs and business owners, would focus on equipping MSMEs with the skills, mentorship and support needed to expand and create employment opportunities across the region.

“The event aims to strengthen MSMEs as a major engine of job creation and economic diversification in the Niger Delta and the wider Nigerian economy.

“The summit will feature exhibitions, keynote presentations, panel sessions, mentorship engagements and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs aged between 20 and 45,” said Mr Siasia.

Mr Siasia noted that previous editions of the summit had assisted participants in accessing grants, funding and business support systems, including the NIRSAL Intervention Loan, which benefited more than 400 entrepreneurs in 2021.

He said the Niger Delta and the country at large must embrace a future driven by innovation, technology, agriculture, renewable energy and the knowledge economy, adding that MSMEs would remain the backbone of such transformation.

Governor Douye Diri will serve as chief host of the 2025 edition, while the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Samuel Ogbuku, is expected to be the guest of honour.

Usoro Akpabio, South South Development Commission’s MD, Olasupo Olusi, Bank of Industry’s boss, and Ayodeji Sotinrin, Bank of Agriculture’s chief, are also expected to attend the event.

(NAN)