By Lucy Ogalue
The Federal Government has tasked the newly inaugurated Board of Directors of the Bank of Industry (BOI), to be catalyst for economic growth and industrial development.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Doris Anite , said this during the inauguration of the board on Wednesday in Abuja.
Anite said that the roles of the board would be instrumental in shaping the future direction of the institution, ensuring that BOI remained a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic advancement.
She informed members of the new board that their appointment was a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s trust in their abilities and expertise.
“You all were meticulously selected based on your distinguished backgrounds.
” Therefore you all have no excuse than to fulfil this national assignment with utmost dedication, upholding the highest standards of public service and acting in the best interests of the nation.
“As we align with the Renewed Hope Agenda, it is imperative that BOI, in partnership with the Ministry, prioritises Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) within its lending activities.
“This focus will drive sustainable economic growth and create job opportunities across the country,” she said.
She commended the outgoing board members, praising them for working with the ministry to record some of the glowing achievements of BOI.
The minister said that the BOI had made significant strides in recent years, reinforcing its commitment to Nigeria’s industrial and economic development.
She listed some of the notable achievements to include increased financial support to over 3,000 MSMEs across various sectors and creating over one million jobs for Nigerians.
She said that other achievements included, technological advancements, funding of sustainable development projects and capacity building for entrepreneurs, among others.
“The newly inaugurated board is expected to build on these achievements, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.
“The board would also foster innovative strategies that will enhance BOI’s capacity to support industrial development and economic diversification.
“The board’s mandate includes ensuring that BOI’s operations are aligned with national economic goals, particularly in supporting MSMEs, which are the backbone of Nigeria’s economy,” Anite said.
The new board Chairman, Dr Mansur Muhtar, expressed gratitude to the President for deeming it worthy to appoint them on the board of BOI.
Muhtar said that considering the challenges and enormity of these responsibilities, the board will stand on the pedestal of Tinubu ‘Renewed Hope’ mandate.
“And will work in accordance to the vision and mission of the Bank, aligning it with current realities and objectives of the current administration”.
NAN