–DG meets Tinubu
SMEDAN, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development of Nigeria, has restated its commitment to addressing challenges faced by SMEs in the country. Following a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja, Charles Odii, the Director General of SMEDAN, emphasized the agency’s preparedness to lead the Renewed Hope economic prosperity agenda, particularly by tackling obstacles hindering SME growth.
Odii highlighted that the meeting with the president provided an opportunity for SMEDAN to discuss the ‘Grow Nigeria’ strategy, aimed at providing essential guidance, resources, opportunities, and workforce support for SMEs to thrive.
According to a statement by SMEDAN’s media unit, Odii emphasized the pivotal role of SMEs in the President’s mission to alleviate poverty and ensure prosperity across Nigeria. He mentioned that during the discussion, they explored SMEDAN’s ‘GROW Nigerian’ strategy, which aims to create an enabling environment for over 40 million small businesses, collectively providing over 60 million jobs. The focus is not only on shielding SMEs from inflationary pressures but also on empowering them to counter such trends effectively.
Odii further stated that SMEDAN will collaborate with other government agencies to streamline regulations and optimize them for growth and productivity. Efforts will be made to eliminate obstacles hindering formalization and expansion of SMEs.
Under the strategy, SMEs will have access to affordable financing opportunities, lucrative domestic and international markets, tailored mentorship, and support for capacity building to enhance production standards.
Odii expressed gratitude for the President’s support and leadership, highlighting the importance of his endorsement for SMEDAN’s initiatives.
Source: Nigerian Tribune
