We will continue to support local businesses, says Shettima

•VP visits SecureID facility
Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerian businesses of the Federal Government’s continued support for their operations.

He spoke when he visited the state-of-the-art smartcard manufacturing plant of SecureID Limited in Lagos.

The VP celebrated the company’s remarkable contributions to the country’s manufacturing and digital solutions ecosystem.

The Vice President, who toured the facility, hailed SecureID’s cutting-edge production processes and its commitment to quality and innovation.

He commended the company’s resilience and success, noting that it exemplifies the kind of homegrown businesses that can transform Nigeria’s economy.

“The government is committed to fostering an enabling environment for businesses like SecureID to thrive.

“Through targeted policies and interventions, we are repositioning Nigeria’s economy to support local innovation, boost foreign exchange earnings, and create employment opportunities.

“This edifice embodies the promise of what our nation can achieve when our innovative minds are given the support to compete with the rest of the world.

“SecureID is proof that when there is a will, there is always a way. This administration will continue to foster an environment where innovation thrives, ensuring that every citizen has the opportunity to succeed,” he said.

The founder of SecureID, Kofo Akinkugbe, expressed gratitude for the Vice President’s visit and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to expanding its operations, creating jobs and putting Africa on the global stage.

“We are proud of what we have achieved so far, but this is just the beginning. With the support of the government, we are ready to scale our operations, increase our export potential and contribute even more to Nigeria’s economic growth,” she said.
She reiterated the company’s commitment to building a global brand while maintaining its Nigerian identity.

“Indigenous companies like ours are making waves against all odds. This just encourages us to keep pushing forward, regardless of limitations,” Akinkugbe said.

She also said SecureID had already demonstrated its capacity to produce secure passports locally, emphasising the importance of government support in promoting local production.

“It will be beneficial to the entire economy,” she noted.

Addressing questions on SecureID’s sustainability strategy, Akinkugbe highlighted the company’s efforts in developing eco-friendly products.

“We launched Nigeria’s first eco-friendly SIM card just two months ago.

“We are very focused on sustainability, reducing plastic use, and creating environmentally friendly solutions for our customers,” she explained.