The Cross River State Journalists Forum (CROSSJOF), Abuja chapter, has showered encomiums on the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, for his innovative Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Support Programme, describing it as a refreshing departure from conventional empowerment schemes that often leave beneficiaries worse off.
In a statement by its Chairman, Francisca Ogar, CROSSJOF praised the programme—funded personally by the Minister through his John Owan Enoh (JOE) Foundation—as a genuine effort to equip Cross Riverians with sustainable skills and resources rather than short-term handouts.
The ongoing initiative, launched in 2025 with an initial ₦500 million intervention, targets entrepreneurs and artisans across the state.
According to the statement, the JOE MSME Support Programme emphasises capacity building and long-term business viability. CROSSJOF highlighted how the scheme, managed transparently by renowned activist and journalist Agba Jalingo, stands out for its focus on “teaching beneficiaries how to fish” instead of merely handing out fish—a nod to the timeless proverb.
The first and second phases have targeted a total of 950 beneficiaries (approximately 475 per phase), with phases three and four in the pipeline.
Applicants undergo compulsory one-week training at Enterprise Development Centres (EDCs) in Calabar, Ikom, and Ogoja.
Successful participants in the formal sector receive grants ranging from ₦100,000 to ₦500,000, while those in the informal sector receive between ₦100,000 and ₦150,000.
To promote sustainability, beneficiaries are encouraged to opt for business equipment or items instead of cash, with disbursements handled directly where possible or via bank transfers for perishables or non-procurable needs.
Jalingo has repeatedly stressed the programme’s incorruptible and transparent selection process, insisting that Senator Owan Enoh has maintained strict hands-off involvement.
“He has not pressured us, sent any list, or nominated beneficiaries,” Jalingo stated in a recent update. “No politician or team member has influenced the list. Beneficiaries emerge purely on the merit of verified business proposals.”
Special consideration is given to a limited number of slots for persons with disabilities, including a notable case of a deaf graduate from the University of Calabar who has operated as a photographer for nearly two decades using outdated equipment.
Such targeted support aligns with the Minister’s vision of uplifting genuine small business owners rather than those seeking funds for non-business purposes.
The second phase beneficiaries are expected to be announced by January 31, 2026.
The statement added that CROSSJOF described the initiative as “a good incentive to empower Cross Riverians from all walks of life” and commended Senator Owan Enoh—affectionately called JOE—for his ingenuity in driving grassroots economic empowerment.
“This is not just about money; it’s about building lasting capacity in the formal and informal sectors,” Ogar stated.
“The Executive Committee and members of CROSSJOF salute the Minister for this thoughtful approach to uplifting our dear state.”
