As a palliative measure to cushion the effect of Coronavirus (COVID 19) on businesses, businessmen have called for government’s support to enable them survive.
Some of them who spoke with our correspondent in Port Harcourt said it would be difficult for many of them to bounce back without government’s support.
Managing Director, Nedal Energy World Limited, Prince Emmanuel Ogba appealed to both the federal and state governments to support businessmen whose businesses were affected by the lockdown.
He said that following the lockdown in most states of the federation, businessmen and women who were forced to shut down their businesses have incurred huge losses.
“To shut down one’s business for two weeks means that the owners of such businesses have suffered a lot of losses.
“I appeal to the federal and state governments to come to the aid of these people to cushion the effects of the lockdown”, Ogba said.
Ogba commended the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, for relaxing the curfew imposed in parts of Port Harcourt, saying the gesture is an obvious indication that Governor Wike is a leader who listens to the yearnings and aspirations of the people.
He advised the people and residents of the state to reciprocate the governor’s gesture by obeying the directives of the state government, since the directive is in the interest of the public to stay alive.
“Whatever sacrifices the people can make to be alive is worthwhile, so Governor Wike means well and should be appreciated”, he stated.
Another businessman, the Manager of Clinton Buz Services, Mr. Clinton Nwokeke said “if businessmen and women are not supported by government at all levels, it will negatively affect the economy”.
Nwokeke expressed fear that without support, many businesses would not open after the lockdown, adding that, “what is sustaining many people are their business capitals. If Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) close, the economy of the nation would also be affected”.