In a strategic move to bolster Nigeria’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has called for unified stakeholder collaboration ahead of the upcoming MINE FEST 2025. The agency aims to create a supportive environment for over 40 million MSMEs, which are pivotal to the nation’s economic growth.
During a Stakeholders Engagement Forum and Press Conference held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Olubunmi Kole-Dauda, representing SMEDAN’s Director-General, emphasized the agency’s commitment to the “GROW” strategy (Guidance, Resources, Opportunities, and Workforce support). This approach is designed to provide comprehensive support to MSMEs, fostering their development and sustainability.
“Our Director-General is passionate about seeing the Nigerian economy thrive through strategic support for small businesses,” Kole-Dauda stated. “We recognize partners like MINE FEST who share this vision, as recognition drives results.”
MINE FEST 2025, scheduled for October, is envisioned as more than just a business event. Convener Tito Philips described it as a movement to reshape Nigeria’s innovation narrative. The festival will feature the MINE Trade Fair, showcasing homegrown products and services, and the MINE Conference, bringing together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to discuss structural changes necessary for business growth. A highlight of the event will be the Under 40 Nigerian CEOs Awards, honoring 40 young entrepreneurs making significant economic contributions.
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“MINE FEST is about driving a national conversation on how innovation, local production, and enabling policies can transform Nigeria’s economic future,” Philips remarked. “These young entrepreneurs are building Nigeria’s future today, one enterprise at a time.”
SMEDAN’s call to action underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between public and private sectors to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s vast MSME landscape. By aligning strengths and resources, stakeholders can create an ecosystem that nurtures entrepreneurship, empowers the workforce, and opens up sustainable opportunities for local businesses.
As Nigeria prepares for MINE FEST 2025, the collective commitment of stakeholders will be crucial in driving the nation’s economic transformation through the empowerment of its MSMEs.
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