EPC, Adamawa govt. partner to empower over 150 SMEs in Yola

By  Yagana Ali Yola 

The Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC) joined forces with the Adamawa State Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry to present export certificates to 150 small‑ and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs). 

The event capped a two‑day capacity‑building workshop aimed at familiarizing local entrepreneurs with the procedural and documentary requirements of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).held at the state’s conference Centre,

Speaking on behalf of the NEPC, North‑East regional coordinator Mr. Anani Egon explained that the program was designed specifically for “profiled SMEs seeking to expand into regional and continental markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).”

He added that the initiative is being implemented in partnership with the state Ministry and the World Bank‑funded SABER program, which provides technical leadership and oversight throughout the project.

Ishaya Dabari, Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, said the state government had already covered the cost of the certificates as part of its broader effort to improve the ease of doing business in Adamawa. 

“The program is intended to enhance the capacity of the beneficiaries so that they can achieve greater success in their respective businesses,” Dabari said, urging the SMEs to leverage the certificates to boost their operations and contribute to the state’s economic prosperity. 

He reiterated Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s vision of positively impacting the youth, noting that the export certificates are meant to promote legitimate, legal trade and to encourage young entrepreneurs to seize the opportunities presented by AfCFTA. Michael Zira, 

Director‑General of the Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation Agency (PAWECA), praised Governor Fintiri for his steadfast commitment to youth empowerment.