The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) commemorated World Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Day with a strong reaffirmation of its dedication to empowering entrepreneurs and promoting the “Grow Nigeria” campaign, a strategic initiative designed to bolster the national economy by fostering support for local businesses and products.
At the heart of the MSME Day celebration in Akure, Ondo State, Prince Olatomi Ikuomola, the Ondo State Coordinator of SMEDAN, reiterated the agency’s unwavering commitment to creating a nurturing ecosystem for entrepreneurs and inspiring consumers to actively choose locally made goods and services.
Ikuomola provided further details on the “Grow Nigeria” campaign, emphasizing that its primary goal is to encourage a shift in consumer behavior, motivating Nigerians to prioritize the purchase of products manufactured within the country’s borders. This increased demand for Nigerian-made goods is strategically intended to stimulate domestic production, generate valuable employment opportunities for citizens, and ultimately contribute to the development of a more resilient and self-sufficient national economy, reducing reliance on imports and fostering sustainable growth.
He passionately praised Nigerian entrepreneurs for their remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, their proactive and forward-thinking approach to business, their unwavering commitment to innovation, and their tireless hard work, underscoring that they deserve significantly greater recognition and robust support for their invaluable contributions to the nation’s overall economic prosperity and stability. While acknowledging the considerable challenges posed by the prevailing economic climate, Ikuomola highlighted the extraordinary ability of Nigerian entrepreneurs to persevere through difficult times, adapt to changing market conditions, and continue to deliver high-quality goods and services that meet the needs of consumers. He emphasized that despite the existing hardships, many entrepreneurs have not only managed to survive but are also thriving and performing exceptionally well, clearly demonstrating their indispensable role in driving economic progress and shaping the future of Nigeria. SMEDAN’s renewed commitment is specifically aimed at providing these essential economic actors with the critical resources, comprehensive support, and well-deserved recognition they need to continue fueling economic growth, driving innovation across various sectors, and creating a brighter future for Nigeria.
