The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) is taking bold steps to empower Nigerian small businesses. Through a new partnership with Flutterwave, SMEDAN is helping micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) gain better access to digital tools, training, and financial services. This partnership marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s push to support its most active economic sector.
SMEDAN’s partnership with Flutterwave aims to drive inclusive growth and boost business opportunities for MSMEs across Nigeria. Many of these small businesses often struggle to access resources, and this collaboration will bridge that gap. By offering payment solutions, business support, and training, the initiative is designed to help entrepreneurs grow and scale.
Dr. Olawale Fasanya, the Director General of SMEDAN, highlighted the importance of digital integration for business sustainability. He said this partnership brings new opportunities for MSMEs to compete in today’s digital economy. Flutterwave brings experience in payment technology, and SMEDAN adds its grassroots network and policy backing.
The platform created by Flutterwave will allow MSMEs to register, create virtual shops, and access digital tools. It will also offer business management features that simplify daily operations. This means entrepreneurs can now sell online, track payments, and reach more customers. SMEDAN is ensuring that even businesses in remote areas can benefit.
Training programs will also be rolled out. These sessions will teach business owners how to use digital platforms, manage their finances, and improve their services. SMEDAN will provide ongoing support, and Flutterwave will offer mentorship through its network. Entrepreneurs will grow, and Nigeria’s economy will benefit.
The partnership between SMEDAN and Flutterwave comes at a time when MSMEs need support to survive and thrive. Inflation, limited infrastructure, and market access challenges have slowed many businesses. This partnership offers practical tools, knowledge, and platforms that can transform how small businesses operate and compete.
The agency’s role in this initiative goes beyond support. SMEDAN is actively monitoring progress and ensuring that policies align with entrepreneurs’ needs. The partnership shows that public-private collaborations can produce real solutions. It also shows SMEDAN’s commitment to innovation and digital transformation.
Flutterwave expressed excitement about the collaboration and reaffirmed its commitment to Nigerian entrepreneurs. The company said its goal is to make payments easier, faster, and safer. With SMEDAN’s guidance, it can now reach even more businesses and provide them with tools to succeed.
The Nigerian economy relies heavily on MSMEs, which contribute significantly to employment and innovation. SMEDAN is helping these businesses take full advantage of technology. By working with Flutterwave, the agency is giving small businesses a stronger voice and a better chance to grow.
In a country with vast potential and youthful energy, SMEDAN is positioning itself as a key driver of change. With clear goals, strong partnerships, and practical support, it is proving that government agencies can lead from the front and create lasting impact for millions of entrepreneurs.
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