Jasper SME Hub has announced its commitment to training 50,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria by 2025.
Emmanuel Olujobi, the founder, revealed this during the Hub’s annual SMEFest, themed “Building to Scale”, which brought together entrepreneurs and stakeholders to discuss strategies for growth and sustainability in the SME sector.
In her keynote address at the event, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, special adviser to the President on the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), outlined the government’s plans to support SMEs in 2024.
She highlighted several initiatives aimed at increasing access to finance, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating a business-friendly environment.
Linda Ochugbua, digital sales manager at BusinessDay Media, described SMEs as the foundation of Nigeria’s economy, stressing the importance of equipping them for growth.
“SMEs are the backbone of our economy. Supporting them means investing in Nigeria’s future. Jasper SME Hub has demonstrated a commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration, and we are proud to be part of this initiative. Through platforms like this, small businesses can access tools, mentorship, and market opportunities that will help them scale effectively,” she said.
Ochugbua also emphasised the critical role of digital adoption for businesses.
“Digital transformation is no longer optional in today’s economy. Entrepreneurs must learn to leverage technology to expand their reach, improve efficiency, and gain an edge in the market. Jasper SME Hub is providing the resources to make this shift possible, and I urge all SMEs to take advantage of these opportunities,” she added.
Olujobi highlighted the need for collaboration between the private sector and the government to strengthen the SME sector.
“Our goal is to equip entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate challenges and scale their businesses sustainably. By working together, we can ensure that small businesses play a significant role in Nigeria’s economic growth,” he stated.
The event featured a Business Pitch Session, where emerging entrepreneurs presented innovative ideas to a panel of judges, competing for resources to advance their businesses.
SMEFest 2024 also offered business owners opportunities to share experiences, connect with investors, and gain practical insights through panel discussions.
Topics covered included funding strategies, business continuity, and leveraging technology for growth.
