In a recent interview on Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) 88.5FM’s Ask the Commissioner program, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Anambra State Small Business Agency (ASBA), Clement Chukwuka, discussed the Agency’s impactful role in empowering small businesses across the state.
The conversation covered key achievements, partnerships,challenges, and future plans under the leadership of Governor Charles Soludo.
The MD/CEO began by highlighting the Agency’s key achievements since Governor Soludo took office.”The Anambra State Small Business Agency has played a pivotal role in advancing the growth of Micro,small and medium(MSMEs) businesses, which are vital to the state’s economic prosperity,”he remarked. He emphasized the Agency’s efforts in offering financial assistance, capacity building, among others to small enterprises.
Speaking on the direct benefits of ASBA’s initiatives, the MD/CEO revealed that several programs had been launched to address the specific needs of small and medium business owners in the state. Among the most notable initiatives are:(i)ASBA’s SME facilities
(ii)ASBA’s One Youth 2 Skills funding program
(iii)ASBA’s Igwebuike(co-operative)funding scheme, also the UNDP/EU N100,000 grant and training program etc,which had a direct impact on increasing business revenue and creating jobs.
“We have focused on providing both financial resources and training to ensure that small businesses not only survive but thrive,” he said.
Chukwuka also shared that ASBA has partnered with both public and private sector to enhance it’s outreach and effectiveness.”Our collaborations with ANSIPPA and Ministry of Industry have been instrumental in expanding the reach of our programs” he noted.
This teamwork has helped drive sustainable growth in the state’s small business sector.
The Agency is also collaborating with the Bank of Industry to ensure more funding package for on-lending purposes to the MSMEs bracket in the state.
On empowerment and Capacity Building, Capacity-building initiatives have also been central to the Agency’s strategy, with numerous training programs and workshops designed to improve the skills of local entrepreneurs. “Our goal is to equip small business owners with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed, especially in areas like Financial literacy, digital marketing and Business development/Export” the MD/CEO explained.
Addressing Challenges, the conversation also touched on the challenges faced by ASBA in fulfilling its mandate. Despite the hurdles, such as limited resources,the Agency has remained resilient.
The MD/CEO shared how ASBA quickly adapted to provide relief during the Covid-19 pandemic, including financial support and business continuity strategies for affected enterprises.
In the area of Economic Impact and Future Plans,Clement Chukwuka spoke about the measurable economic impact of ASBA’s programs on local businesses, noting an increase in employment rates and overall business growth in Anambra State. Looking to the future, he outlined the Agency’s plans for sustaining these gains, with a focus on long-term development strategies and continued collaboration with stakeholders.
On outreach to Rural Areas,ensuring that small business owners in rural areas have access to ASBA’s resources is a priority, the MD/CEO highlighted the agency’s efforts to extend its reach beyond urban centers. “We are committed to making sure that small businesses in every corner of Anambra have access to the resources and support they need to grow,”he affirmed. He advised them to form a Co-operative Association for easier funding scheme.
In conclusion, the MD/CEO encouraged small business owners to take full advantage of the Agency’s services. “I urge all small business owners to reach out to us, as we have the resources, programs, and partnerships to help them succeed,” he said.
The interview concluded with the MD/CEO reaffirming the agency’s commitment to the success of small businesses in Anambra. As the Soludo-led government continues its term, ASBA remains a key player in fostering a thriving business environment in the state.
For more information on Anambra State Small Business Agency’s programs and how to access them, small business owners are encouraged to visit our website asba.anambrastate.gov.ng.