The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) participated in the 7th edition of the National Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Awards 2025, held in Abuja. The agency was represented by its Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, who emphasized the critical role of MSMEs in Nigeria’s economic development.

Celebrating MSME Contributions

The National MSME Awards serve as a platform to recognize and celebrate the contributions of small businesses to the Nigerian economy. During the event, Kashifu Inuwa highlighted the importance of MSMEs in job creation, innovation, and poverty alleviation. He noted that these enterprises are vital for driving economic growth and fostering entrepreneurship across the country.

In his address, Inuwa discussed NITDA’s commitment to supporting the MSME sector through various initiatives. He stated that the agency recognizes the challenges faced by small businesses, particularly in accessing technology and funding. To address these issues, NITDA has implemented several programs aimed at enhancing the digital competencies of MSMEs.

Inuwa also announced that NITDA is working on providing training and resources to help MSMEs leverage technology for their growth. He encouraged entrepreneurs to embrace digital tools, which can improve their operations and expand their market reach. By adopting digital solutions, MSMEs can enhance their competitiveness in an increasingly globalized economy.

Fostering Collaboration and Innovation

The awards ceremony brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including government officials, business leaders, and representatives from financial institutions. This gathering provided an opportunity for networking and collaboration among participants, fostering a spirit of innovation and partnership.

Kashifu Inuwa emphasized the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to create an enabling environment for MSMEs. He called for increased support from financial institutions to provide affordable credit facilities tailored to the unique needs of small businesses. By improving access to finance, NITDA aims to empower MSMEs to scale their operations and contribute more significantly to the economy.

Additionally, Inuwa stressed the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of MSMEs. He expressed the hope that the National MSME Awards would continue to inspire entrepreneurs to strive for excellence and innovation in their respective fields.

In conclusion, NITDA’s participation in the 7th edition of the National MSME Awards 2025 underscores the agency’s commitment to supporting small businesses in Nigeria. By focusing on technology adoption, collaboration, and recognition of achievements, NITDA aims to create a more vibrant and resilient MSME sector. As the agency continues its efforts, the future looks promising for Nigeria’s entrepreneurs, who play a vital role in shaping the nation’s economic landscape.