Nigeria Takes Center Stage: Abuja Hosts Landmark African Business Forum
Abuja, Nigeria – The heart of Nigeria’s capital is buzzing this week as Abuja welcomes delegates from over 50 African nations for the 4th African Union (AU) Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSME) Forum. Kicking off today, June 23rd, and running through Friday, June 27th, this crucial gathering is set to tackle the very real challenges faced by small businesses across the continent – from securing affordable financing to navigating the digital landscape and opening up new markets.
Nigeria, playing host under the umbrella of the African Union Commission, is taking a prominent role in fostering a continent-wide conversation about boosting intra- and inter-African trade. The aim? To truly support the growth and resilience of the small enterprises that form the backbone of Africa’s economies.
Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), shared insights during a press conference on Friday, emphasizing the clear objective: empowering small businesses by strengthening the very policies designed to help them flourish. “Our principal goal,” Senator Hadejia explained, “is to empower Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises, cultivate intra-African value chains, and fortify policies on MSME development through strategic partnerships that will ultimately allow MSMEs across the continent to truly thrive.” He urged Nigerian businesses and stakeholders to seize this unique opportunity, encouraging them to build fresh connections for investments and access to markets, both within Africa and beyond.
Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that Nigeria’s rising profile on the global stage is undeniable. He stressed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to approve Nigeria as the host nation serves as a powerful signal to the world: Nigeria is open for business. “This is one of the foundational steps in opening up our economy to the rest of the world,” the Minister noted, calling upon the media to play their part in ensuring the event’s success.
The impact of this forum isn’t just about trade figures. Barrister Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, expressed her strong belief that the forum will provide a significant boost to Nigeria’s culture and tourism sectors. She sees it as a chance to build and solidify robust policies for the industry, further amplifying the “Destination Nigeria” project – a flagship initiative spearheaded by her ministry to rebrand the nation.
Mr. Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSME and secretary of the organizing committee, confirmed that all arrangements are in place for a dynamic week. The agenda promises a rich mix of high-level presentations, engaging panel discussions, lively fireside chats, showcasing of cutting-edge technology and innovation, product exhibitions, and ample networking opportunities for businesses from every corner of the continent.
A particular highlight will be the MSME awards, where deserving small business owners from across Nigeria will be recognized with impressive prizes, including cash, houses, and even dedicated store spaces. Mr. Adekunle-Johnson underscored that President Tinubu’s approval for this significant event directly reflects the administration’s understanding of the crucial role MSMEs play in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and alleviating poverty – all core tenets of the “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
Leaders from key supporting organizations, including Mr. Charles Odii of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN), Mr. Abba Bello of the Nigeria Export Import (NEXIM) Bank, and Mrs. Nonye Ayeni of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), have all pledged their unwavering commitment to ensuring a successful and impactful forum.
The week’s activities kicked off with the opening ceremony at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja today. Technical sessions and product exhibitions will then take center stage at the Abuja Continental Hotel from June 24th to 26th, culminating in the grand finale and MSME Awards, returning to the State House Banquet Hall on Friday. This forum marks a pivotal moment for African enterprise, with Nigeria proudly leading the charge.