The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, says the 2026 National MSME Awards reflect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's strong commitment to making Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) the foundation of Nigeria's economic prosperity under the Renewed Hope Agenda. 

He praised the Federal Government's decision to disburse over ?1 billion in grants to more than 1,000 entrepreneurs, describing it as a practical step to boost businesses, create jobs and stimulate grassroots economic development. 

Idris also dedicated his recognition for supporting MSMEs to the Ministry of Information and National Orientation and its staff, reaffirming their role in promoting government programmes. 

At the event, Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, said replacing material gifts with business grants of ?500,000 to ?3 million would provide entrepreneurs with the working capital needed to expand operations and drive inclusive economic growth.