• by Unyime Ben

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AKICORP Reiterates Commitment to MSME Growth at NASME Business Clinic on AKSG-BOI Loan Programme

Uyo, Akwa Ibom – October 18, 2025

The Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation (AKICORP)  reaffirmed its dedication to facilitating access to finance for local entrepreneurs during the National Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (NASME) Business Clinic Series and Stakeholders Engagement Meeting, held at the Edinan Hotel & Suites, Uyo on Saturday, 18 October 2025

The event had in attendance officials from the Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture and AKICORP as well as the State Chairman of NASME and his Executives. The participants were drawn from NASME Members and Business Owners of the various sectors of the Economy in the State.

A major focus of the business session was the ongoing AKSG-BOI MSMES Loan Programme, a strategic initiative by the Akwa Ibom State Government in partnership with the Bank of Industry (BOI).

The Executive Director (ED), Other Investments, AKICORP, Mr Usen Effiong enlightened the audience on the Corporation's pivotal role, emphasising that AKICORP acts as a critical interface to ensure businesses can successfully leverage the funds for sustainable growth and economic expansion.

The ED stated, "AKICORP is committed to creating an enabling environment for our entrepreneurs. Our role is to guide you, not just to the funds, but to a position of sustained profitability."
Recognising the common hurdles faced by applicants, the ED, Other Investment, made a strong and direct call to the MSME community:
“We understand that concerns often arise, particularly around documentation and navigating the application process. I strongly encourage all entrepreneurs facing these challenges to immediately contact our Entrepreneurship and Business Development (EBD) department for guidance and hands-on support.”

The session, which also featured interactive sessions with the Branch Manager of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA) and the Acting State Manager of BOI, concluded with the re-validation and registration of new members of the National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME).
 

Dr Ime Edoho, the State Chairman of NASME, delivered the welcome remarks and expressed gratitude to the attending Development Partners and dignitaries for their commitment to nurturing the MSME sector in the State.

AKICORP’s participation reinforces the Corporation’s mandate to coordinate and promote investment and entrepreneurship activities in Akwa Ibom State. The EBD Department remains on standby to provide the necessary advisory services to ensure a seamless process for all eligible beneficiaries of the AKSG-BOI MSMES Loan Programme.

Jacob Ikpe