Abubakar H. Muhammad (9News Nigeria, Northeast)
Centre for Innovation and Advanced Technology, (CIATECH) Africa, has taken a remarkable step in promoting and developing economic activities in Borno State.
CIATECH Africa an international organization working on innovation, technology, advocacy and entrepreneurship among other things.
The organization is partnering with Rayyaan Microfinance Bank to support entrepreneurs in the state through several interventions.
The two parties signed an agreement for the intervention on Monday in the state’s capital, Maiduguri.
As part of the program, 50 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across key sectors such as agribusiness, retail, and digital services will be supported.
The support includes training, mentorship, and access to financial services.
According to CIATECH, the partnership seeks to bridge the gap between innovation and access to finance by equipping local entrepreneurs with essential digital tools, financial literacy, and business development support.
It noted that selected MSMEs will receive training, mentorship, and access to financial services tailored to help them scale sustainably.
Speaking during the signing of the agreement, founder of CIATECH Africa, Umar Grema, described the partnership as “a milestone in advancing digital and economic inclusion for small business owners in Borno.”
“Our collaboration with Rayyan Microfinance Bank is driven by a shared vision to empower local entrepreneurs, especially youth and women-led businesses, with the right skills, finance, and technology. We are not just supporting MSMEs; we are building an ecosystem of innovation and resilience in Borno State,” he explained.
Also in his remarks, the Managing Director (MD) of Rayyan Microfinance Bank, Abubakar Musa, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to expanding financial inclusion in underserved communities.
“We are proud to partner with CIATECH Africa in creating pathways for entrepreneurs to grow. Together, we will ensure that MSMEs in Borno can access the tools, credit, and knowledge they need to succeed in today’s economy,” he said.
While CIATECH will lead the digital training and entrepreneurship development components, Rayyan will provide financing and financial advisory support.
This program aligns with Borno State’s broader goals of fostering innovation, strengthening the local economy, and empowering youth to become job creators rather than job seekers.
It also builds on CIATECH Africa’s ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and promote sustainable livelihoods through technology and innovation.
