SMEDAN redoubles efforts to boost SMEs, receives presidential backing

In a recent meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja, the Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Charles Odii, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to overcoming hurdles facing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the country.

Odii, speaking after the meeting, highlighted SMEDAN’s determination to lead the “Renewed Hope” economic prosperity agenda, focusing particularly on addressing challenges hindering SME growth. The discussion with the president centered on the “Grow Nigeria” strategy, aimed at providing SMEs with essential guidance, resources, opportunities, and workforce support to flourish.

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According to a statement from SMEDAN’s media unit, Odii emphasized the pivotal role SMEs play in the president’s agenda to alleviate poverty and spread prosperity across Nigeria. He outlined the agency’s plans to create an enabling environment for over 40 million small businesses, which collectively offer employment to over 60 million people.

Odii emphasized collaboration with other government agencies to streamline regulations and optimize them for growth and productivity. The agency aims to remove barriers hindering formalization and growth while providing SMEs with affordable financing options, access to lucrative domestic and international markets, tailored mentorship, and capacity-building support for improved production standards.

Expressing gratitude for the president’s support, Odii hailed the backing as both exciting and reassuring, thanking President Tinubu for his time and exemplary leadership.