Back in Abuja today, it was my privilege to deliver the keynote address on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, at the West Africa SMEs Exhibition 2023. The event, themed “MSME 4.0: Enhancing Productivity, Competitiveness, Resilience, and Sustainability in an Era of Digital Transformation,” marked a pivotal moment for the Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprise (MSME) sector.
At the heart of this landmark occasion was the announcement of two transformative initiatives: the launch of a 1 Billion Naira Youth Empowerment Fund and a 1 Billion Naira Women Empowerment Fund. These funds, spearheaded by NASME, aim to drive substantial positive change by empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs and supporting women-led enterprises. This strategic investment underscores our commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the MSME sector, which is crucial for the economic development of Nigeria and the wider West African region.
The West Africa SMEs Exhibition 2023 was meticulously organized by NASME, in collaboration with ECOWAS, SMEDAN, and UNIDO ITPO. It serves as a significant milestone in our collective efforts to enhance the productivity, competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability of MSMEs. By leveraging digital transformation, the exhibition highlighted the opportunities and challenges facing small and medium enterprises in today’s rapidly evolving business environment.
The introduction of these empowerment funds is set to catalyze growth and development across various sectors, providing essential support for emerging businesses and entrepreneurs. It is a testament to our dedication to creating an enabling environment for MSMEs to thrive and contribute meaningfully to economic advancement.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of digital transformation and its impact on the MSME sector, events like the West Africa SMEs Exhibition 2023 play a crucial role in shaping the future. They offer a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation, ultimately driving progress and sustainable development in our region.
Today’s keynote address was not only an opportunity to reflect on our achievements but also to reaffirm our commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering a dynamic business ecosystem. As we look ahead, we remain steadfast in our mission to support and uplift MSMEs, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the demands of the digital age and contribute to a prosperous future for all.
