By Valentine Alexander 
As Nigeria prepares to host the 4th African Union (AU) MSME Forum from June 23 to 27 in Abuja, the federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs) through digital innovation, market access, and affordable financing. Vice President Kashim Shettima, during the inauguration of the oversight committee for the forum, stated that Nigeria is making bold strides to construct “digital highways and bridges” to help MSMEs thrive and compete across African markets.
Transforming MSMEs Through Digital Infrastructure and Innovation
Vice President Shettima emphasized that over 83% of employment in Africa comes from the informal sector, which makes the development of MSMEs not just crucial but transformative. The administration of President Bola Tinubu has initiated several innovative policies to digitalize the economy and create an enabling environment for MSMEs. Notably, Nigeria has aligned its policies with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement by chairing the AfCFTA Negotiating Forum and establishing a Technology Export and Digital Trade Desk. This desk will assist entrepreneurs in exporting digital services and products across African markets, reducing barriers and enhancing competitiveness. Shettima also highlighted flagship programmes like the $617.7 million i-DICE Programme, which supports digital and creative enterprises, and the 3 Million Tech Talent Programme, aimed at equipping Nigerian youths with skills in coding, data science, and digital literacy. These initiatives are designed to power Nigeria’s digital transformation and provide sustainable support for MSMEs.
Hosting the 4th AU MSME Forum: A Strategic Move
The upcoming AU MSME Forum is expected to serve as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration across Africa. Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President and chairman of the organising committee, noted that the theme, “Building Resilient MSMEs through Digital Innovation, Market Access and Affordable Financing for Africa,” is in alignment with Nigeria’s strategic priorities. Key government stakeholders including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, and Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, emphasized that the forum reflects Nigeria’s rising profile among African nations and its commitment to empowering small businesses. The administration has promised to create a conducive atmosphere for the success of the event and ensure that Nigerian MSMEs benefit from networking, funding opportunities, and new market access.
State and Institutional Commitment to MSME Growth
Lagos State, home to nearly 70% of Nigeria’s MSMEs, is taking proactive steps to ease funding challenges through initiatives like the N10 billion Lagos State – Bank of Industry MSME Access to Finance Scheme (LASMECO). Other states including Benue, Imo, Enugu, Katsina, and Ekiti are also actively participating in planning the event through sub-committees. Top government agencies such as the Bank of Industry (BOI), Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) have all pledged their support. They emphasized that the forum will not only empower local businesses but also catalyze economic growth and deepen Nigeria’s participation in intra-African trade.
Opeoluwa Okudero
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