A group of artisans and transporters in Taraba state has thanked the federal government for coming to their aid following losses suffered during the COVID- 19 pandemic.
The artisans, including carpenters, electricians, painters and plumbers, told North-East Trust shortly after a Town Hall meeting in Jalingo that the support would help improve and sustain them in business.
- FG to access $750m World Bank loan for states
- How real sector credit sustains upward trajectory with loans-deposit ratio policy
Their spokesperson, Mallam Ibrahim Lawal Kafinta said many of them were thrown out of business following the COVID-19 pandemic.
He stated that throughout the period of the lockdown almost all small businesses were closed down because of lack of patronage.
Mallam Ibrahim Kafinta explained that many of the Artisans in the state were unable to cater for themselves and members of their families because of the losses they suffered.
He said the N30,000 assistance to be given to members of the group would reduce their suffering and enable them to restart their businesses.
“Many of us have little capital and they have used it up during the lockdown,” he said
Earlier, during the meeting, the Manager of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) in the state, Bala Yusuf, said President Muhammadu Buhari approved the disbursement of the money to cushion the effect of COVID-19.
Bala Nuhu further said that the federal government has rolled out other schemes aimed at sustaining economic activities in the country .
He the beneficiaries are not expected to pay back the money given to them.
“The N30,000 was free and you are not to pay back to anybody and also the process of getting the money is free,” he said.
He advised leaders of the various groups to ensure transparency in the selection of beneficiaries.
Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.
