Calabar, Cross River State. – Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, has officially launched the second phase of his empowerment initiative targeted at boosting economic opportunities for entrepreneurs, small business owners and startups across Cross River State.
This follows a widely-welcomed first phase that sought to build grassroots economic participation through direct support for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The new phase opens applications for grants ranging from ₦150,000 to ₦500,000, making it possible for informal traders, artisans and formal business operators alike to participate in the expanded programme.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their details online or via WhatsApp as outlined in the official call for participation, which will close on January 14, 2026.
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This second stage of empowerment builds directly on the minister’s earlier initiative that saw a ₦500 million MSME support fund unveiled to grow the local private sector and deepen entrepreneurial capacity amongst Cross River youths and business owners.
Officials believe this phased effort will increase employment, expand local trades and bolster economic resilience in communities across all local government areas.
For Cross River residents, this phased empowerment effort has a distinctly local character. Many beneficiaries of the first rollout spoke about receiving vital seed capital that helped them stabilize small operations and reinvest in their businesses.
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The current launch reflects a people-centric approach to economic development, aligning with broader state goals that prioritize entrepreneurship, youth inclusion and job creation.
It also complements other state-level empowerment efforts, including regional grants for women traders and youth grants, that aim to strengthen household incomes and community entrepreneurship.
Local stakeholders have emphasised that Enoh’s initiative goes beyond one-off handouts. It is strategically positioned as a foundation for sustainable enterprise growth, encouraging innovation, mentorship and networking among business owners in the state.
SOURCE: Cross River Watch
