Ogun State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to creating an enabling environment for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), to thrive as stakeholders reviewed and validated the proposed National MSME Policy (2026–2031).
The policy review and validation exercise, aimed at strengthening MSMEs growth and improving competitiveness of small businesses, was organised by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), in collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) in Abeokuta.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Adedeji Sowunmi, said the review would provide an opportunity to identify gaps in the existing framework and develop strategies to unlock the potential of the MSME sector.
Represented by the Director of Industrial Promotion in the Ministry, Mr. Femi Adeboye, Sowunmi commended the inclusive approach adopted for the review, noting that contributions from stakeholders would help shape a policy that addresses the realities faced by businesses across the country.
“I am confident that the inputs from this workshop will guide government at all levels to design interventions that are not just on paper but that will be significantly felt in markets and factories. On behalf of the Ogun State Government, I assure you of our full cooperation in this drive. We are open to partnerships that will strengthen MSMEs in Ogun State and Nigeria at large,” the Permanent Secretary said.
He added that Ogun State remained committed to supporting initiatives that would enhance the capacity of small businesses, improve productivity and promote sustainable economic development.
In his welcome address, the State Manager, SMEDAN, Mr. Biodun Awoliyi, said the consultation was organised to gather contributions from critical stakeholders towards developing a more robust and effective MSME policy capable of strengthening the country’s business ecosystem.
Also speaking, the GIZ Adviser on MSME Policy Review, Dr. Segun Dada, said the review became necessary to address gaps identified in the previous policy, adding that the new framework would reflect emerging realities, including digitalisation, green industrial development, the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), inclusion and improved operational standards for MSMEs.
Dada, explained that the proposed policy was built around seven strategic pillars, including access to finance, enabling business environment, skills and competitiveness, digital transformation, infrastructure and clusters, market access and trade, as well as inclusion and resilience.
In their contributions, the State Chairman, Association of Nigerian Women in Business Network (ANWBN), Mrs. Ayokunlemi Oshin and a representative of 720 Degrees Innovation Hub, Mr. Dayo Ogundeyi, described the review as timely, saying it would help reposition the MSME sector to address current challenges.
They urged stakeholders to remain committed to the process and ensure effective implementation of the policy after its completion.
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