Today, I had the pleasure of visiting and engaging with SMEDAN-sponsored Nigerian SMEs at the 2023 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) in Cairo, Egypt. This event is a significant milestone for the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises in Nigeria, and it underscores our agency’s commitment to empowering these businesses to thrive not only within our borders but also on a continental and global scale.
Fostering access to profitable markets within and beyond Africa is a primary focus for SMEDAN, as we recognize that market access is a critical component for the sustainable growth of our economy. The IATF provides an invaluable platform for Nigerian SMEs to showcase their products and services, connect with potential buyers and investors, and explore new opportunities for expansion across the continent. By facilitating their participation in this fair, we are enabling these businesses to cultivate valuable networks that can open doors to new markets and partnerships.
During my visit, I was inspired by the innovation and resilience displayed by our SMEs. Their commitment to excellence and their determination to overcome challenges are truly commendable. These qualities are essential as we work together to elevate local production standards, ensuring that Nigerian products can compete on a global scale. In this regard, our agency remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that enhance the quality and competitiveness of our SMEs.
Furthermore, our engagement at the IATF is not limited to the fair itself. We are actively participating in discussions with relevant stakeholders to streamline regulations, remove trade barriers, and create an enabling environment for our businesses to succeed. This involves advocating for policies that support seamless and efficient market entry, reduce the cost of doing business, and promote fair competition.
As we continue to support our SMEs at the IATF and beyond, we are not only contributing to their success but also to the broader economic growth of Nigeria. Our efforts are geared towards building a robust SME sector that can drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute significantly to the GDP. Together, we can ensure that Nigerian SMEs are well-positioned to take advantage of the opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and beyond.
