The Chairman, National Association of Small Scale Industries (NASSI), Lagos State, Mrs. Gertrude Akhimen, has charged Lagos State government to create enabling environment for Micro-Small and Medium-Scale Enterprise (MSMSE) to thrive in the state.

She said: ‘’The Bureau of Statistics report says MSMSE contributes 48 per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Therefore, it is creating employment and reducing poverty in the country. ”
She spoke at the NASSI/MSME seventh trade fair held at Cappa Oshodi, Lagos. It was organised by Lagos State government.

Akhimen commended the resilience, determination and ingenuity of MSME to overcome obstacles, navigate uncertainties and seize opportunities with an unwavering spirit, despite the economic challenges in the country.

Akhimen noted that last few years have been very difficult for the MSME operators, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The decaying infrastructure has not helped matters.  Other problems that have plagued the MSME are multiple taxations. Including government policy inconsistency and lack of funds.

However, Carlsbury Winery, which produces red wine and other non-alcoholic drinks, was one of the MSME organisations, which participated at the trade fair to showcase their products.

A staff member of Carlsbury Winery, Mariam Attai, said this year was not their first time of coming to the trade fair because they have participated in previous MSME exhibitions.
She added that the organisation is ready to participate in next year’s trade fair to ensure Nigerians are served better wines at home and in occasions.
She said: “It was a moment of joy to me to participate in this trade fair our organisation is committed to serve Nigerians better”.