UN agencies in Nigeria have called for increased investment in the development of Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) to promote inclusive economic growth in the country. This appeal was made during the 2025 International MSMEs Day celebration held on Monday in Abuja.
The event was organized collaboratively by several UN bodies, including the UN Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), International Labour Organisation (ILO), UN Development Programme (UNDP), UN Information Centre, and the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO).
Representing UNIDO, Mr. Reuben Bamidele, National Programme Officer, highlighted the critical role MSMEs play in nation-building and the importance of supporting their sustainable growth. He noted that Nigeria is home to at least 40 million MSMEs, which significantly contribute to employment, livelihoods, and GDP across multiple sectors.
From the ILO, Mr. Stephen Agugua, National Project Coordinator for the Social Dimension of Ecological Transition, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to fostering job creation through MSMEs. He emphasized ongoing engagements aimed at identifying challenges faced by these enterprises and crafting practical, sustainable solutions.
UN Engagement Spurs Multi-Stakeholder Support for MSME Innovation and Inclusion in Nigeria
UNDP’s Ms. Claire Henshaw, National Programme Specialist and Trade Focal Point, underlined MSMEs as vital drivers of job creation, innovation, and social inclusion, particularly for women and youth. She stressed the necessity of prioritizing MSMEs within Nigeria’s development agenda to convert opportunities into real progress.
Speaking on behalf of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Dr. Chinedu Nnabuihe praised the UN agencies for facilitating the dialogue. He acknowledged the resilience and creativity of Nigerian MSMEs despite obstacles like limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and broader economic challenges. Dr. Nnabuihe also reiterated NECA’s commitment to advocating for policies that support MSME growth.
The event drew a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists, Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, and the Corporate Affairs Commission. Officials from the National Insurance Commission, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, and Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry were also present.
Highlights of the celebration included visits to MSME exhibition stands, presentations outlining UNDP and government initiatives related to MSMEs, and discussions led by WIPO on intellectual property support tailored for small businesses.
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