The Federal Government has appointed key officials to the oversight committee for the 4th African Union MSME Forum in Abuja. The members include the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; and Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose.
Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, conveyed the announcement in a letter issued on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima on Friday, May 9, 2025.
The committee also includes Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, John Owan Enoh; FIRS Chairman, Zach Adedeji; SMEDAN Director General, Dr. Charles Odii; NEPC Executive Director, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni; NIPC Executive Secretary, Aisha Rimi; NEXIM Bank MD/CEO, Abba Bello; NACCIMA President, Dele Oye; and Deputy Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (AU Division), Anthony Alonwu.
Forum to Drive Growth of MSMEs Across Africa
The Forum will take place from June 23 to June 27, 2025, at the Abuja Continental Hotel. It offers a top-tier platform for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises to connect, share insights, and explore new growth opportunities. This year’s theme is “Building Resilient MSMEs through Digital Innovation, Market Access & Affordable Financing for Africa.”
Vice President Shettima stated that the committee will focus on supporting the forum’s success. It will guide discussions on strategic interventions for African MSMEs and build strong partnerships with both public and private stakeholders.
Lagos Reaffirms Support for MSME Development
In her response, Folashade Ambrose called the appointment a call to service. She pledged to ensure the forum’s success.
She also thanked President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for the opportunity. According to her, the forum aligns well with Lagos State’s commitment to empower MSMEs. The state continues to provide loans and support for entrepreneurs.
“MSMEs drive economic growth and prosperity,” Ambrose said. “They create jobs, boost revenue, promote inclusion, and diversify the economy. In Nigeria, they play a key role in GDP growth and support underserved communities.”
The Forum is expected to attract about 400 delegates from across Africa. These include policymakers, investors, and MSME sector leaders.
Furthermore, the event will feature paper presentations, panel discussions, side events, exhibitions, networking sessions, and business pitch competitions. Organizers will also present awards to outstanding Nigerian entrepreneurs.
