A scheme known as N75b National MSME Survival Fund was initiated by the Federal Government to support individuals and businesses negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Within 48 hours, that the Government announced the N75bn National MSME Survival Fund and the Guaranteed Off-take Stimulus schemes under the Nigeria Economic Sustainability Plan, 174,574 persons have successfully registered.
Mariam Yalwaji Katagum, Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment said : “as at 8.30am this (Thursday) morning, total successful registrations stood at 174,574.”
“The following states have the highest applications as follows, Kano, 19,895; Kaduna, 13,575; Lagos, 13,640; Katsina: 8,383; Federal Capital Territory, 8,085.”
She stated that within the first 24 hours of opening the registration portal, approximately 138,000 individuals logged on, created profiles and completed the first stage of registration and that all successful applicants received SMS and email verification with a list of requirements for the second stage of application which would commence on October 1, 2020.
“Applicants will be required to upload details supporting their applications which will be verified and if successful, approved for disbursements,”
Mariam said registration for other tracks would start next with the hospitality industry coming on September 25, 2020, by 10am; payroll support, September 28, 2020, 10am; while artisan/transport grants begin on October 1, 2020.
