SMEDAN To Host 2024 National MSME Conference In Abuja

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has officially announced the 2024 edition of the National micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) Conference, themed: ‘GROW NIGERIAN: Sustaining an Innovation and Digital-Driven Economy.’

The highly anticipated event, which is set to take place from October 3rd to 5th, 2024, at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja, will bring together key stakeholders in Nigeria’s MSMEs ecosystem.

The conference will be opened by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, underlining the importance of the MSME sector to Nigeria’s economic future. Organised with the support of international partners like the German International Agency (GIZ) and Mastercard, the event will explore opportunities for growth and innovation within Nigeria’s small and medium enterprises landscape.

A Focus on Innovation and Local Growth

Mr. Charles Odii, Director-General\ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SMEDAN, described the National MSMEs Conference as the most important gathering of entrepreneurs, policymakers, and stakeholders in Nigeria’s MSMEs ecosystem.

“This conference will drive meaningful development by focusing on the eight key sectors identified in the GROW Nigerian strategy,” he said.

These sectors include agriculture, light manufacturing, fashion, creative and entertainment industries, digital innovation, tourism, and education, all aimed at boosting local production and increasing export potential.

The conference agenda will offer practical solutions through the provision of Guidance, Opportunities, Resources, and Workforce Support (GROW) to small businesses across the country. Participants will engage in workshops, masterclasses, and networking events aimed at equipping them with the tools to thrive in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital economy.

Notable figures in Nigeria’s business and entrepreneurship world are set to attend, including Mr. Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings; Mr. Hakeem Belo-Osagie, Chairman of Metis Capital Partners; and Mr. Jonathan Ortmans, Founder and President of the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN). These business leaders will offer their insights on navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship in Nigeria and beyond.

One of the highlights of the conference will be the premiere of the second season of the hit drama series The Smart Money Woman, created by Ms. Arese Ugwu, who will attend the event alongside stars such as Mr. Timini Egbuson , and  Mrs. Osas Ighodaro.

Empowering Entrepreneurs with Practical Tools

The conference will provide numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs to gain valuable insights. Attendees can visit one-stop shops featuring key government agencies such as NAFDAC, CAC, SON, and the Nigeria Customs Service. These agencies will offer guidance on navigating regulatory challenges and accessing financial services, while SMEs will showcase their innovations at the Exhibition Pavilion.

Masterclasses will cover topics such as digital skills development, business scaling, and taking advantage of international trade agreements like AGOA and AfCFTA, with sessions led by experts including Google, the United Nations, and thought leaders like Mr. Chude Jideonwo, Co-founder of Red Media.

Additional activities include a Deals Room, where scalable businesses will have the opportunity to secure investments from venture capital firms, as well as a Pitch Competition for entrepreneurs to present their ideas and attract funding.

The event will conclude with an awards ceremony led by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, recognising outstanding contributions to SME development from government officials and public-sector reformers across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The awards will celebrate initiatives that have driven growth through infrastructure development, financial investment, and targeted reforms.

Interested participants can register to attend the 2024 National MSMEs Conference at www.smedan.gov.ng/msmeconference.