Nigerian Government to Enhance Global Market Access for MSMEs

The Federal Government of Nigeria is taking significant steps to broaden global market access for the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by partnering with development finance institutions across Africa and beyond. This initiative aims to boost Nigeria’s export potential and strengthen its position in international trade.

Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, shared this development during the Re-Energised Webinar Series 3.0, organized by the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC). The event, themed “Export Market Access: Leveraging on Key Trade Corridors,” was held on Wednesday in Abuja.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Nura Rimi, Dr. Uzoka-Anite emphasized the importance of strategic trade partnerships in driving Nigeria’s economic growth. “Understanding market access is crucial for our businesses to thrive,” she said. “Nigeria’s diverse resources and innovative spirit position us as a significant player in international trade. By leveraging key trade corridors, we can create pathways for our products to meet international standards and reach new markets.”

The minister highlighted the government’s commitment to equipping Nigerian exporters with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of global trade. The webinar provided a platform to explore various trade corridors, discuss regulatory frameworks, and share best practices that could help Nigerian businesses capitalize on their competitive advantages. She also noted ongoing collaborations with key global institutions to ensure that Nigerian products reach markets worldwide.

Adding to the conversation, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, the Executive Director and CEO of NEPC, stated that the agency has over 30,000 registered exporters capable of supplying their products across the globe. She noted that NEPC is actively involved in capacity building across Nigeria’s 36 states to support these exporters.

“Everyone has a role to play in the value chain, and we must all participate actively,” Ayeni said. She reiterated NEPC’s commitment to fostering better trade outcomes and announced that the webinar featured experts in trade and investment who would offer valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges associated with key trade corridors.