By Busola Bamidele
The National SME Conference opened on a vibrant note last night as fashion designers and foodpreneurs took centre stage in a colourful showcase that highlighted the creativity and diversity within Nigeria's growing SME ecosystem.
The welcome event, shared on Dr. Jumoke Oduwole's official X handle, featured an energetic runway display and product exhibitions that underscored the strength of the "Made in Naija" and "Wear Naija" movement. The presentation brought together emerging brands, young entrepreneurs and industry supporters, creating a platform for visibility, recognition and market linkage.
According to the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI), the showcase aligns with its ongoing commitment to promote locally made products and expand opportunities for MSMEs across West Africa and beyond.
The ministry noted that strengthening homegrown value chains in fashion, food processing, beauty, leatherworks and other creative sectors remains central to its wider economic reform agenda.
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This year's conference theme also focuses on innovation, market access and sustainability for small businesses. Organisers say the welcome event was intentionally designed to celebrate the resilience of Nigerian entrepreneurs while setting the tone for the sessions ahead, which include discussions on digital transformation, export readiness, access to finance and the role of policy reforms in boosting MSME competitiveness.
Stakeholders attending the conference highlight the growing interest in Nigeria's SME sector, driven by demand for locally made products, increasing youth participation and a stronger push for regional trade. For many participants, the fashion and food showcase demonstrated how creative businesses continue to power job creation and inspire a new wave of enterprise across the country.
With the strong turnout and positive reception, organisers say the best is yet to come as the conference continues, offering entrepreneurs more learning opportunities, networking platforms and avenues to scale their businesses.
