Social media influencer and business strategist, Amaechi Loretta Omijeh, has emphasized the critical role of supporting young entrepreneurs in Nigeria, particularly small businesses, as the cornerstone for the country’s growth and productivity.
Omijeh, who holds a degree in Economics from Lagos State University and is currently pursuing Global Business Management at the Ontario College of Business and Technology, believes that the dominance of well-established brands often overshadows the potential of emerging businesses, especially those led by young Nigerians.
A Call to Empower Small Businesses
In a recent statement, Omijeh, who was honored as the Business Blogger of the Year at the Scream Awards 2023, spoke passionately about the importance of empowering small businesses. She shared that her drive stems from witnessing the resilience and triumphs of young entrepreneurs, particularly women, and how their success stories have inspired her to help others reach their potential.
“There is an urgent need to provide the right kind of support for small businesses, particularly those led by young women. Empowerment in the right direction can nurture and help these businesses thrive,” Omijeh emphasized.
Bridging the Gap: Youth Unemployment and Productivity Challenges
Omijeh also expressed concern about the rising youth unemployment rate in Nigeria, a problem that hampers the nation’s entrepreneurial spirit and overall productivity. She sees this as a major obstacle to Nigeria’s economic development and believes that addressing this challenge is fundamental to the country’s growth.
She stressed that while entrepreneurs in Nigeria face numerous challenges, a structured support system and a conducive environment for business development—similar to what’s found in more developed economies—could help unlock the potential of local businesses.
A Global Perspective
Having spent significant time between Nigeria and Canada, Omijeh has witnessed first-hand the success of business models and best practices that could be adapted to the Nigerian context. Through her platform, she continues to advocate for small-scale businesses, especially those led by young women, by amplifying their visibility and helping them connect with broader audiences.
Her efforts to build a more supportive environment for entrepreneurs have earned her significant recognition. Omijeh has received multiple awards, including the Young Entrepreneurs Award for Enterprising Youth of the Year and the Award of Excellence at the Scream All Youth Awards 2024.
Inspiration for the Next Generation
Omijeh’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the potential of Nigeria’s youth. As she works tirelessly to build a community that supports entrepreneurship, she continues to inspire other young Nigerians who are committed to establishing businesses that are sustainable and impactful.
Her message is clear: Empowering young entrepreneurs is not just about building businesses; it’s about creating a future for Nigeria where innovation and productivity are the driving forces of national development.
