As 2025 draws to a close, small and medium-sized business owners across Nigeria face a decisive period that could define their financial outcomes for the year. With the final months bringing heightened competition and increased consumer demand, entrepreneurs are urged to adopt smarter, more strategic approaches to stay ahead.
Experts featured on SME Clinic, a BusinessDay Television program for emerging business leaders, revealed that adaptability, collaboration, and financial prudence are the key drivers of success in these crucial months.
According to Success Ajilore, a chartered accountant and founder of the Business Transformation Network, business owners must stay alert to shifting market conditions while managing their finances with precision. “Many SMEs collapse under the weight of overspending and poor forecasting at year’s end,” she noted, advising entrepreneurs to make informed spending decisions and align operations with industry realities.
Ajilore further encouraged entrepreneurs to pursue partnerships rather than working in isolation, explaining that teamwork within the same sector can reduce operational costs, enhance reach, and inspire innovation. “Learn from others’ journeys—both their wins and setbacks,” she said. “It’s the most reliable way to grow sustainably.”
Fellow panelist Ozioma Eze added that visibility now equals viability. She emphasized that no business can afford to remain invisible in the digital era, recommending the adoption of tools like social media marketing, Google Ads, and well-designed business websites. “Digital visibility translates into trust, growth, and ultimately, higher revenue,” Eze said.
Both experts agreed that finishing the year strong is not about luck—it’s about smart positioning. Entrepreneurs who stay financially disciplined, build genuine partnerships, and establish a strong digital footprint are more likely to end 2025 not just surviving, but thriving in an increasingly competitive market.
