The 8th edition of the Nigeria Small and Medium Enterprises Summit and Awards (Nigeria SME Awards) is set to take place in Lagos for the first time, marking a significant milestone for this prestigious event.
Endorsed by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), the annual awards celebrate the resilience, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit driving Nigeria’s economy, especially amid global challenges such as inflation, geopolitical instability, and economic downturns.
Recognizing SME Champions
This year’s event will recognize not just outstanding entrepreneurs but also state governors who have implemented transformative policies to support local businesses. Governors from Zamfara, Sokoto, Ebonyi, Borno, Enugu, Ekiti, Benue, and Kaduna will be honored for their contributions to SME development in their respective states.
Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, Adedayo Olalekan, the convener of Nigeria SME Awards 2025, emphasized the event’s fresh and unique approach.
“Despite economic challenges, Nigerians continue to show an unwavering commitment to progress,” Olalekan stated.
He highlighted the critical role of state governments in fostering an enabling environment for SMEs, ensuring sustainable growth and job creation.
Banks Compete for Excellence in SME Support
The awards will also recognize financial institutions that have significantly impacted the SME sector, with Providus Bank, Access Bank, Wema Bank, and First Bank among the top contenders for prestigious honors.
With banks and policymakers coming together to celebrate and support SMEs, the 8th Nigeria SME Awards promises to be a night of recognition, inspiration, and renewed commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s SME landscape.
