
Nigeria Reinforces Commitment to Entrepreneurship on Global Stage
At the 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) in Indianapolis, USA , Nigeria once again asserted its role as a leader in entrepreneurship-driven industrial transformation .
Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh , represented the Federal Government at the event, delivering a strong message about Nigeria’s growing influence in global innovation and SME development .
Speaking before an audience of ministers, policymakers, and global innovation leaders, Enoh emphasized that Nigeria sees MSMEs —not just as small businesses—but as key drivers of economic diversification, job creation, and inclusive growth .
“With over 39 million MSMEs contributing 84% of total employment, we are investing in national resilience and the architects of our economic future.”
Major Reforms Empowering Nigerian Entrepreneurs
The Nigerian delegation highlighted several major reforms and initiatives aimed at boosting the entrepreneurial ecosystem:
- Implementation of the Nigeria Startup Act
- Establishment of Industrial Hubs across states
- Introduction of financing mechanisms like the Syndicated De-risked Loan Scheme
- Disbursement of over ₦1.3 trillion to MSMEs via the Bank of Industry (BOI)
- Development of solar-powered innovation centers by SMEDAN
These efforts reflect a government-wide push to create a more enabling environment for startups and small businesses.
Enoh also pointed to the rise of Flutterwave , now valued at over $3 billion , as proof of what happens when entrepreneurship meets regulation and innovation .
“This is what becomes possible when entrepreneurship meets enabling regulation and forward-looking innovation,” he said.
Strengthening Global and Regional Ties
On the sidelines of the congress, Senator Enoh led a series of bilateral meetings with global institutions and foreign delegations.
Discussions centered around improving MSME competitiveness , building stronger innovation partnerships , and setting measurable benchmarks for Nigeria’s industrial ecosystem.
A highlight was the agreement reached with Ministers from Algeria, Brazil, and Indonesia to deepen South-South cooperation and co-develop joint frameworks for SME growth .
“These engagements are vital for accessing technical support, capacity-building opportunities, and cross-border investments,” Enoh noted.
He added that Nigeria is not only participating in global conversations—it is actively shaping them from an African perspective .
A Bold Vision for Nigeria’s Economic Future
The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment has reaffirmed its dedication to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of an inclusive, innovation-led economy .
With entrepreneurship at the core of this strategy, the ministry remains open to global partnerships that empower small businesses, unlock digital trade, and promote sustainable economic advancement.
“Nigeria is ready to scale new heights,” Enoh declared.
“Our entrepreneurs are ready. Our policies are bold. And our ambition is clear — to make Nigeria a global model for entrepreneurship-led development.”
Call to Action: Share Your Thoughts!
What do you think about Nigeria’s growing presence at global entrepreneurship events like the GEC? Can MSMEs truly drive Nigeria’s economic transformation?
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