The National MSME Conference 2025 in Lagos brought together Nigeria’s major voices in enterprise development for three days of learning, connection, and celebration. Organised with the support of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), the event gathered entrepreneurs, policymakers, creators, industry leaders, and development partners who came to share ideas and explore new opportunities for growth. What unfolded became a strong reminder of the resilience and creativity within Nigeria’s small business community.
The opening day focused fully on fashion and food, with the Fashion and Food Only Showcase welcoming guests into a lively atmosphere. The event space carried bright colours, bold designs, and the aroma of fresh meals prepared by some of the country’s rising culinary talents. Guests tasted dishes from Chef Martha, Chef Luscious, and Chef Agabus, while Palm Afrika attracted attention with its innovative palm wine blends. The runway segment became one of the most talked-about parts of the day as Nigerian designers displayed pieces that reflected the depth of local creativity. Designers such as Adire Teems, Atuche, Turban Tempest, Lolabaej, Stitches by Lope, Korede James, Bxfrox, Nitemi The Label, and Gozifego presented collections that showed how Nigeria’s fashion industry continues to grow.
Several dignitaries attended, including the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and the Senior Special Assistant on Tourism to the Lagos State Governor, Idris Aregbe. Their presence added to the importance of the showcase. Day 1 sent a clear message that Nigeria’s fashion and food sectors are capable of competing globally and are far from ordinary.
Day 2 marked the official opening and welcome ceremony of the conference. The keynote speech by Tony O. Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings and Founder of The Tony Elumelu Foundation, was described by many attendees as a reawakening for SMEs. In his words, business owners were reminded to “realise their real purpose” and to stay committed to building and growing despite challenges. His message encouraged entrepreneurs to remain focused on long-term success.
Another important highlight was the session led by Professor Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms. He explained the new tax reform laws that will take effect in January 2026 and broke down how these reforms will affect SMEs. He also offered guidance on what business owners should prepare for as the changes approach.
A major launch also took place on Day 2 with the introduction of mySMEville, a new digital platform created in partnership with MTN. According to organisers, the platform will help entrepreneurs have a full view of their business activities in one place, making it easier to track growth, manage operations, and access support.
Two breakout sessions added more value to the day. One was for newly graduated ICSS students, who received direction on the next steps they should take as certified service providers. The second session brought together Business Development Service Providers, who discussed how to improve support for MSMEs across Nigeria. A panel session titled “Competing and Thriving in the Digital Era: Technology and the Future of MSME Growth” explored how technology and AI can be used by business owners to expand their reach and run their operations more effectively.
Throughout the day, the exhibition grounds were filled with activity. Food vendors offered a mix of comfort meals and creative delicacies, while guests visited different stalls to discover new brands and support local entrepreneurs.
The final day carried a mix of powerful stories and emotional moments. The Women’s Summit brought together women entrepreneurs, the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and the Governor of Lagos State, represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Kaosarat Bada Ambrose-Medebem. Conversations focused on breaking barriers and building stronger support systems for women-led MSMEs.
Two masterclasses also took place. The Content Creation Masterclass with Folagade Banks drew a large crowd, with many referring to it as engaging and practical. The raffle draw became one of the day’s biggest highlights when three attendees won brand new iPhone 16 Pro devices. One of the winners, a young creator who had used an iPhone 7 for seven years, moved the room with her emotional reaction. The Intellectual Property Masterclass also helped entrepreneurs understand how to protect their creative work.
The conference concluded with the grand finale of the SMEDAN Pitch Competition. Out of more than 700 applicants, 10 semifinalists pitched their ideas on stage. Five winners were announced, receiving a total of 20 million naira in grant funding. The winner received 10 million naira, the first runner-up received 5 million naira, the second runner-up received 3 million naira, and the third and fourth runner-up received 1 million naira each. Semifinalists who did not win still went home with GROW Nigerian Gift Boxes and Nigerian-made tablets to support their businesses.
Organisers noted that the National MSME Conference 2025 succeeded because thousands of entrepreneurs showed commitment to learning and collaboration, while partners, facilitators, and speakers helped drive the vision forward. The message throughout the event was that every participant played a role in building something bigger. Plans are already underway for the National MSME Conference 2026, with hopes of expanding opportunities and strengthening support for small businesses across Nigeria.
