ABUJA — The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has opened discussions with the European Union on expanding cooperation in support of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), young entrepreneurs and inclusive economic development.
The engagement took place on Tuesday when the Director-General of SMEDAN, Mr Charles Odii, received the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, and his delegation at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
The meeting examined areas of potential cooperation between Nigeria and the EU, with emphasis on strengthening enterprise development, improving market opportunities and creating pathways for Nigerian businesses to attract investment and expand their operations.
Following the meeting, the EU delegation toured SMEDAN’s Common Facility Centre and workshop, where it was briefed on practical initiatives supporting skills development, innovation, productivity and enterprise growth.
The engagement also featured interactions with local government stakeholders, young entrepreneurs and small business operators.
Participants discussed measures to improve access to markets, expand investment opportunities and increase the presence and patronage of Nigerian businesses within EU member states.
Particular attention was given to the emerging green and digital economies, which were identified as areas with significant opportunities for Nigeria’s growing population of young entrepreneurs.
Discussions highlighted the importance of access to appropriate technology, financing, skills and international markets in enabling businesses operating in these sectors to develop and compete effectively.
Odii said SMEDAN would continue to pursue strategic partnerships capable of translating international cooperation into practical opportunities for Nigerian MSMEs and young entrepreneurs.
The agency also expressed appreciation to the European Union for its continued engagement with Nigeria and reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cooperation towards strengthening the country’s enterprise ecosystem and supporting broader economic development.
