The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), led by Director General Charles Odii, recently joined a high-level roundtable discussion on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The meeting, which included Ministers Doris Uzoka-Anite and Betta Edu of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, was held in collaboration with AfCFTA Secretary General Wamkele Mene to explore trade opportunities and operationalize protocols that benefit Nigerian businesses.
Focus on Addressing Challenges and Unlocking Opportunities
In a post shared on SMEDAN’s official X handle, the agency highlighted the roundtable’s focus on tackling challenges faced by African businesses, particularly innovative enterprises, within the AfCFTA framework. Discussions centered on strategies to enable businesses to develop market-driven products and services, empowering them to thrive in the competitive African market.
#GROWNigerian Initiative and Export Promotion
As part of its #GROWNigerian initiative, SMEDAN reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing local production to meet international standards. The agency emphasized its role in equipping Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to become significant players in regional and global markets. By prioritizing export activities, SMEDAN aims to help Nigerian businesses maximize the economic opportunities provided by the AfCFTA.
This collaborative effort underscores SMEDAN’s commitment to advancing Nigerian SMEs, ensuring they benefit from the continent’s expansive trade network under AfCFTA.