A collective of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Edo State has been engaged to produce hand sanitisers for China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC), a big player in Nigeria’s maritime and shipping industry, as the Edo State Government ramps up effort to boost local production amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The SMEs engaged in the production of the high-grade hand sanitisers were mobilized by the Edo State Skills Development Agency (EdoJobs), which worked with the Edo State First Lady’s Office and other private concerns in reaching out to the small enterprises, most of which are owned by women trained at EdoJobs training facilities across the state.
Executive Director, EdoJobs, Mrs. Ukinebo Dare, who disclosed this in a chat with journalists, said the hand sanitisers were produced with local materials by SMEs in the state.
According to her, “We have just completed the supply of high-grade hand sanitisers made by enterprises in the Edo State to China Harbour Engineering Company. It is a watershed moment for us, especially working close with the small businesses that were engaged in carrying out the tasks.
“What we have done is to link up these small businesses to the big ones. As you know, CHEC, is working closely with the state government on the development of the Benin City River Port. So, it is a good thing that they are partnering with small businesses for supply of some of their wares. So it is highly welcome; we are proud of these collaborations. “
She noted that the state government would continue to link small scale enterprises in the state to bigger companies as part of strategy to build a strong industrial base and provide an opportunity for small businesses to thrive and become profitable.
Recall that EdoJobs had mobilised local tailors in the state for production of 8000 facemasks for businesses in the state, ensuring that out-of-work businesses are engaged in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
