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Apply for NDA Admission for 78 Regular Course

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Apply for NDA Admission for 78 Regular Course

Application for admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy 78 Regular Course has officially opened, according to a notice signed by the Academy Registrar. The announcement states that online registration for the 78 Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy, NDA Kaduna, will run from Friday 28 November 2025 to 30 April 2026. The Academy confirmed that admission is open to both male and female Nigerians.

The notice explains that all application forms must be submitted online together with a scanned copy of SSCE, NECO or an equivalent result. It adds that upon submission, candidates are required to download an Acknowledgement Form. The Academy stated, “Candidates are to download an Acknowledgement Form after completing their online application.”

The NDA Screening Test, which serves as Phase One of the Post-UTME screening, is scheduled for Saturday 6 June 2026. Eligible applicants are expected to present their Acknowledgement Form, Screening Test Admission Card, JAMB result slip and two postcard sized photographs at the screening centres. The photographs must measure 3.5 by 5 inches and show the chest upwards, with the candidate’s name, exam number, state, exam centre, course of study and signature written at the back.

The statement notes that only candidates who meet the admission requirements and score 210 in UTME for Engineering courses or 180 for other faculties will be allowed to print the Screening Test Admission Card. Successful candidates at the screening test will later be invited for the Armed Forces Selection Board.

Interested applicants are to visit www.ndaapplications.net, select Purchase Access Code and pay the N7,000 fee through REMITA using an ORDER ID and RRR Code generated on the portal. Only payment against RRR Codes generated via the application portal would be accepted.

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Apply for Orange Group 2025 Management Trainee Program

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Apply for Orange Group 2025 Management Trainee Program

The 2025 Management Trainee Program at Orange Group has opened applications for young professionals interested in building a career in a structured learning environment. The company confirmed the opportunity in a notice, stating that the program will take place in Lagos. According to the statement, “Application is open” and interested candidates are encouraged to submit their details before the deadline of December 12, 2025.

Orange Group explained that a degree in Management or Business is an added advantage, while experience in fields such as Sales or Customer Services is also considered useful. Applicants are expected to have comprehensive knowledge of MS Office and strong verbal and written presentation skills. The organisation emphasized that the selection process will test basic competencies, noting that “this is a 45 minutes test that will assess your basic competencies in numeracy and comprehension.”

The procedure requires applicants to fill out the online form, attach their CV and proceed to the aptitude test. The notice advised candidates to go through the practice test and read all instructions carefully. It added that once the form is opened, “you cannot come back to the previous page,” urging applicants to confirm their details before submitting. The CV must not exceed 5MB and should be ready for upload. Applicants are also expected to have a pencil, paper and calculator before starting the test.

Interested individuals can apply through https://orangegroups.com/orange-hr.

Women Entrepreneurs Get Support Through Investment Readiness Programme

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Women Entrepreneurs Get Support Through Investment Readiness Programme

Now with the number of women growing in the entrepreneurial and innovative spaces, the bar is being raised. To this end, several developmental programmes are being designed to equip them with the skills they need to grow amid harsh economic realities. Correspondent Funk Adoji reports.

Research shows that 83% of Nigerian women consider themselves entrepreneurs. A recent report from the National Bureau of Statistics indicates that women own around 40% of small businesses in Nigeria. These figures reflect a growing shift, as more women take up intensive training and mentorship opportunities to strengthen their ideas, improve their skills, and position their ventures for growth.

One of the latest efforts supporting this shift is the Women Investment Readiness Accelerator, created as an outgrowth of the Africa Social Impact Summit, a forum where innovators and entrepreneurs from Nigeria and across Africa access investment. Organizers say the programme was developed to address a significant gender gap. Even though women own a large share of small businesses, far fewer female-led ventures are accessing funding compared with male-led ones.

A major challenge women face is visibility. Many participants say there is still a lingering societal bias that affects how female entrepreneurs are perceived. One of them explained that many people “neglect the fact that … we are in a society where people don’t necessarily think women can do a lot of things right.” This bias, she noted, often makes women “blindsided,” restricting the attention and support their businesses receive.

After several weeks of hands-on training, participants in the accelerator are now implementing strategies designed to strengthen their innovative ideas and business operations. Organizers say the programme provides critical support, especially for women-led ventures that struggle to secure funding and technical assistance.

They also point out that there are many ways to support women even beyond what this initiative offers. There are countless creative opportunities and alternative pathways to help women succeed. By increasing their capital base and improving their business acumen, the accelerator gives participants leverage and improves their chances of expanding and eventually attracting larger investments from banks or other financial institutions.

The programme aims to close the gap between businesses with the potential to scale and the resources required to achieve that growth. This vision stretches beyond Nigeria, reaching into other parts of Africa and beyond. With new skills, stronger ideas, and a clearer sense of direction, many of the women say they are ready to compete, innovate, and contribute to economic growth. For them, this programme marks the beginning of new opportunities.

Governor Eno Sets Plan for Profitable Agribusiness in Akwa Ibom

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Governor Eno Sets Plan for Profitable Agribusiness in Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has restated his administration’s commitment to building a profitable agricultural economy that can boost earnings for the State. He shared this vision while speaking with Government House Correspondents after inspecting ongoing renovation work at the headquarters of the Akwa Ibom State Agricultural Development Programme, AKADEP, in Uyo.

Governor Eno explained that the government has now created an Agricultural Business Unit specifically for serious agribusiness investments that will generate real revenue. He stressed that agriculture should be seen as a major economic sector with clear opportunities for profit. According to him, the State must separate agricultural business investment from agricultural social welfare if it intends to grow its internally generated revenue and reduce dependence on oil funds.

He stated that the Ministry of Agriculture will continue its role in social investment through free or subsidized distribution of seedlings and farm inputs. However, he noted that activities such as tree-crop planting, equipment leasing, and model farming fall strictly under business investment because they can be run profitably.

Agriculture is big business, and Governor Eno emphasized that the government will no longer fund ventures simply because they fall under government responsibility, especially when such ventures can be managed effectively by private operators. He said the State must focus on making agriculture a strong income source.

He added that separating welfare from business in agriculture will help drive meaningful earnings for the State. The goal, he explained, is to grow revenue and secure the economy in case of any shortfall from oil allocations coming from Abuja. He said the State must work toward becoming economically viable and financially self-reliant by revitalizing and sustaining all its business investments.

Governor Eno said the administration is committed to turning State-owned assets into income-yielding ventures managed professionally for long-term benefit. To support this vision, he announced the appointment of Pastor Godwin Ukwat as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Agric Business. Before this role, Pastor Ukwat served as the Executive Director of Agric Investment.

Accompanying the Governor during the inspection were the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; the Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson; and other members of the State Executive Council.

SSDC Chief Backs Empower Her Project at Abuja Launch

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SSDC Chief Backs Empower Her Project at Abuja Launch

The Managing Director of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), Ms. Usoro Akpabio, has announced firm support for programmes that strengthen women’s welfare, endorsing the newly introduced Empower Her Project as an essential platform for national development. She made this known on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, while delivering the keynote address as Chairlady of the project’s official unveiling at the Dr. Mariam Babangida Centre for Women Development in Abuja.

Ms. Akpabio called for a long-term and sustained commitment to women’s empowerment, describing it as a strategic investment that can shape Nigeria’s stability and prosperity. She explained that the philosophy behind the Empower Her Project aligns with her personal beliefs and the SSDC’s mandate of promoting development across the South-South geopolitical zone.

In her remarks, the Managing Director highlighted that women’s inclusion is a major driver of socio-economic progress, stressing that nations grow faster when women are supported to reach their full potential. “When women have access to education, skills, opportunities, and the freedom to thrive, they contribute significantly to economic growth, innovation, and social stability,” she stated.

She added that the strength of any nation is closely linked to the empowerment of its women, noting that resilient women are central to achieving long-lasting national development. While celebrating the project’s unveiling, she cautioned that real empowerment goes beyond launching a programme. She urged governments and NGOs to remain committed, saying, “As we celebrate this unveiling, let us remember that empowering women is not a one-time event. It is a continuous commitment, a shared responsibility, and a promise to build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.”

Ms. Akpabio also praised the leadership and dedication of the project’s Chairperson, Hon. Tabitha Illiya, commending her efforts in strengthening the capacity of Nigerian women. She described the Empower Her Foundation as a key mechanism to help women discover their potential, build sustainable means of livelihood, and take their rightful place as contributors to national growth.

The event also included the inauguration of the Northern Nigeria Christian Women for Asiwaju (NNCWA). Commenting on the development, Ms. Akpabio said the group’s launch is timely and noted that their commitment to praying for and supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration aligns with broader efforts to sustain the Renewed Hope Agenda beyond 2027.

The ceremony drew several dignitaries, including Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima, wife of the Vice President, who was represented by the Special Assistant to the President on Media and ICT, Office of the Vice President, Hon. Kwapchi Bata Hamman. Other attendees were the Mother of the Day, Mrs. Amina Elizabeth Yakowa, former First Lady of Kaduna State; Mrs. Elizabeth Egbetokun, President of POWA; Dame Pauline Kedem Tallen, former Minister of Women Affairs; Senator Binta Garba; and Dr. Mathias Byuan, Executive Director (Finance), Federal Housing Authority.

Apply for NWTF 2026 Grant to Support Women-Led Projects

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Apply for NWTF 2026 Grant to Support Women-Led Projects

The Nigerian Women Trust Fund has opened its 2026 Call for Grant Applications, inviting eligible organizations to submit proposals for projects that strengthen institutions, promote women’s voices, advance rights, and help end violence against women and girls across Nigeria. The announcement, made on November 26, 2025, states that the application process is now open to groups working within these focus areas. According to the Fund, the call is part of its ongoing commitment to support women-led efforts that address inequality and harmful practices affecting women and girls.

NWTF is a non-profit organization dedicated to closing gender gaps in governance and improving women’s leadership and political participation. Over the years, NWTF has implemented several national projects such as Create Her Space, She Should Contest, Start Early, Ascend! Young Women Leaders Project, Creating Spaces, the EU–SDGN #OurVoteCountsNG project, Towards Inclusive Governance in Nigeria, and the Gender and Accountability Project. The organization noted that it maintains a nonpartisan position while promoting inclusion, equity, and the elimination of all forms of gender-based discrimination and violence.

The Fund announced that the 2026 grant represents the sixth edition of its project focused on gender-based violence and institutional strengthening. NWTF said the initiative is designed to support women-led groups operating across all six geopolitical zones. The main goal of the grant is to help organizations implement interventions that push for the eradication of gender-based violence while also boosting the leadership and institutional capacity of groups advocating for women’s rights. In its statement, NWTF said this approach reflects its commitment to advancing gender equality and supporting long-term, positive change across communities.

The objectives of the grant include strengthening the effectiveness of women-led and women-focused organizations through capacity building, mentorship and better institutional systems. It also aims to promote understanding and practice of women’s leadership and inclusion, while showcasing their contributions to community development. Another objective is to support advocacy that challenges harmful cultural norms and pushes for policy reforms that protect women’s rights.

The project will run for four months, from January to April 2026. Applicants are required to download all proposal templates and guidance documents through the provided Google Drive link (drive.google.com/drive/folders/1v8HfWMDv7-cMoaHVnfpds5X6JPW3qzLj?usp=sharing) and must submit completed applications by December 12, 2025 to grants@womenfund.org.

Eligible organizations must be gender-focused, registered as local NGOs or CBOs for at least two years and demonstrate functional administrative, financial and human resource systems. NWTF encourages applications from women-led groups, organizations serving Persons with Disabilities and groups in hard-to-reach areas.

Lagos Approves N150bn Rollout of 2,000 CNG Trucks

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Lagos Approves N150bn Rollout of 2,000 CNG Trucks

Lagos State Government on Wednesday announced a major step toward modernising freight movement and improving road safety with the approval of a N150bn intervention for the rollout of 2,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks. The announcement was made during a closed-door briefing at the Ministry of Transportation in Alausa, where senior government officials and leaders of the Nigeria Association of Road Transport Owners, NARTO, were in attendance.

Speaking at the briefing, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa, said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved the N150bn plan to address long-standing safety concerns on major highways. He explained that the intervention would be implemented in phases, beginning with an initial N50bn commitment aimed at replacing old and unreliable trucks with cleaner CNG-powered models.

According to him, the Governor’s decision was driven by the recurring cases of container-related accidents, frequent vehicle breakdowns, and damage to public infrastructure caused by aging freight trucks. Hon. Sola Giwa said, “This initiative will take rickety trucks off our roads, reduce accidents and improve the movement of goods across the state.” He also noted that the initiative was being executed in partnership with the United Bank for Africa, UBA.

During the session, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation Logistics, Hon. Hassan Adekoya, revealed that the Governor had approved mandatory driver safety assessments for operators. He said the assessments would include drug and substance tests, as well as periodic eye examinations to ensure that drivers are fit to operate the new trucks. He added that drivers diagnosed with eye conditions would receive corrective eyewear at no cost.

NARTO representatives at the meeting expressed strong support for the programme, describing it as timely and beneficial for the transport sector. The National President of NARTO, Alhaji Yusuf Lawal Othman, praised both the Lagos State Government and the Federal Government for policies that promote cleaner energy and better transport infrastructure. He also highlighted the ongoing training programmes for operators who will manage the new CNG trucks once they are introduced.

The Chairman of the NARTO Lagos State Chapter, Alhaji Kayode Odunowo, said the initiative would improve safety and professionalism among haulage operators in the state. Also speaking, the South-West Zonal Chairman of NARTO, Alhaji Kola Ogunyemi, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for showing commitment to modernising the sector and encouraged members to fully support the transition.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Olawale Musa, and other senior officials were also present at the meeting.

FG unveils ₦50bn Presidential Catalytic Seed Fund, S-RHP Programme

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FG unveils ₦50bn Presidential Catalytic Seed Fund, S-RHP Programme

Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima on Wednesday announced the creation of a ₦50bn Presidential Catalytic Seed Fund aimed at stimulating private sector-led seed value chains and speeding up agricultural productivity across the country. Shettima made the announcement at the 8th Edition of the SeedConnect Africa Conference and Exhibition organised by the National Agricultural Seeds Council in Abuja.

Represented by Dr Kingsley Uzoma, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Agribusiness and Productivity Enhancement, the Vice President said the new fund is expected to deliver wide social, economic, and environmental benefits for Nigeria. He explained that the initiative would help address long-standing structural bottlenecks within the seed value chain while unlocking the significant potential of the sub-sector.

According to him, the fund will also boost investment in National Seed Testing and Certification Laboratories across different parts of the country. He added that it would strengthen enforcement efforts against fake seeds and increase the involvement of youth and women in seed entrepreneurship.

Shettima also announced the launch of the Seeds for Renewed Hope Program, known as S-RHP, which he described as “a landmark initiative in our national agricultural transformation.” He said the programme represents the operational drive behind a wider strategy that is backed by the Presidential Catalytic Seed Fund.

He said, “This flagship initiative is the operational heartbeat of a broader strategy, empowered by the establishment of the Presidential Catalytic Seed Fund. This Fund, a dream finally realised, operationalises Section 45 of the NASC Act of 2019, providing the long-awaited financial engine to drive private-sector-led growth across the entire seed value chain.”

The Vice President explained that S-RHP is designed to strengthen the seed value chain from research to the farm. He said it will scale up climate-resilient varieties of strategic crops, support local seed companies with credit and infrastructure, and address the last-mile delivery challenge through digital platforms and partnerships. He added that the programme is also aimed at securing Nigeria’s food sovereignty by reducing import dependence and empowering citizens with better access to quality seeds.

He stated that the programme has a specific target between 2025 and 2027. According to him, the aim is “to boost Nigeria’s annual national seed requirement for major staple crops by 10% between 2025 and 2027, narrowing the demand-supply gap and significantly reducing Nigeria’s seed import bill.” He added that “S-RHP will redefine our seed landscape for the next decade.”

Shettima thanked development partners such as AGRA, JICA, FAO, the World Bank, Propcom+, and others for their support. He also urged the private sector to introduce new ideas and investments into the seed sub-sector, noting that they are vital to the country’s agricultural growth.

He emphasized that Nigeria cannot achieve strong progress in agriculture or reach food sovereignty goals without certified, climate-resilient, and high-yielding seeds. According to him, “Africa holds 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land. Here in Nigeria, we are powered by over 40 million farming households. Yet, our potential remains throttled because too many of our farmers still lack access to the very first link in the agricultural chain: high-yielding, climate-resilient, and certified seeds.”

He further said, “The truth is simple and uncompromising: The seed is the code. It is the first technology, the original data packet that determines the success or failure of the entire agricultural value chain. If the seed is weak, the harvest fails. If the seed is strong, the nation thrives. Nigeria cannot feed itself, and Africa cannot feed the world, on weak seeds.”

In his address, Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, said President Bola Tinubu has given clear instructions to ensure that the right seeds are planted to feed the entire country. He stressed that farmers must move away from using saved seeds and instead adopt quality certified seeds sourced from dealers accredited by the National Agricultural Seeds Council.

Kyari noted that food sufficiency remains central to national stability. In his words, “Food sufficiency is the first currency of national stability.”

He said the government’s commitment is supported by existing long-term plans, including the Nigeria Vision 2050, the National Development Plan (2021–2025), the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy, and the ministerial roadmap.

According to him, food sovereignty has now become the main driver of Nigeria’s agricultural transformation. He explained that the goal is to strengthen food security through local capacity, national ownership, and inclusive economic growth.

Kyari listed several achievements recorded since the start of the Tinubu administration, noting that food prices are beginning to drop due to “targeted market interventions.” He said, “As we continue along this path, you will all agree with me that we are already beginning to witness a decline in food prices across several commodities, a reflection of ongoing targeted market interventions. While we are not yet where we want to be, this positive trend confirms that we are moving in the right direction.”

He also explained that the Ministry, working with the African Development Bank and state governments, has expanded the National Agricultural Growth Scheme-Agro-Pocket programme to improve input delivery and boost productivity. He said wheat production is improving, expanding from 15 states during the 2023/2024 dry season to more states in the 2024/2025 season. He added that this growth reflects efforts to increase self-sufficiency in major staple foods.

In his welcome address, Fatuhu Muhammed, Director General of NASC, said the SeedConnect Africa Conference and Exhibition has become a major annual platform that promotes collaboration, innovation, and strong partnerships across the seed value chain.

Muhammed said NASC has helped release over 60 high-yielding and climate-resilient crop varieties while strengthening collaborations with both local and international partners.

Speaking on the newly created ₦50bn Seed Fund, he explained that the fund carries a concessional 6% repayment rate and is domiciled with the Bank of Industry. He stated that the four-year revolving fund will support crop breeding, early generation seed supply, commercial seed production, regulation, and quality assurance.

He said, “Ultimately, it will empower farmers with timely access to high-quality seeds, enhance national food and nutrition security, significantly reduce import dependence, and reinforce the nation’s economic stability.”

Tinubu Authorises Police Recruitment of Additional 20,000 Officers

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Tinubu Authorises Police Recruitment of Additional 20,000 Officers

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday placed strong emphasis on expanding the country’s policing capacity, announcing that the Nigeria Police Force is now authorised to recruit an additional 20,000 officers, bringing the total number of new police recruits to 50,000. The directive was issued as part of a nationwide security emergency declared by the President, according to a State House statement posted on X by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser and Spokesperson to the President.

Tinubu said the new police recruitment plan is a major step in strengthening internal security operations across the country. He explained that boosting police numbers is necessary to meet rising security demands in several regions. The President also stated that he had earlier approved a nationwide upgrade of police training facilities, but with the new directive, the police are now authorised to use National Youth Service Corps camps as additional training depots to speed up the process.

He added that officers currently being withdrawn from VIP guard duties must undergo crash training to prepare them for deployment to security-challenged areas. He said this retraining is expected to help improve policing efficiency and ensure that officers are properly equipped to handle high-risk environments.

The security emergency also covers other agencies. Tinubu directed the Department of State Services to immediately deploy all trained forest guards to flush out terrorists and bandits hiding in forests across the country. He also authorised the DSS to recruit more personnel to strengthen forest security operations and ensure that criminals no longer have places to hide.

Addressing Nigerians, Tinubu said the country is facing a critical moment that demands collective responsibility. He said, “My fellow Nigerians, this is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground, especially in security-challenged areas. The times require all hands on deck. As Nigerians, we should all get involved in securing our nation.”

The President commended security agencies for the successful release of 24 schoolgirls abducted in Kebbi State and 38 worshippers kidnapped in Kwara State. He assured that efforts would continue until the remaining students of Catholic School in Niger State and other abducted citizens are rescued.

Tinubu praised the Armed Forces for their courage and sacrifice, noting that this period is challenging both for the nation and for the military itself. He urged troops to remain disciplined and committed to restoring peace. He said, “There must be no compromise, no collusion, and no negligence. The Nigerian people are counting on you, and this administration will provide the support you need to succeed.”

The President also said the Federal Government will work with state governments that have established security outfits to safeguard their people. He called on the National Assembly to begin reviewing laws that would allow states to create state police if needed.

Tinubu urged state governments to reconsider the practice of establishing boarding schools in remote locations without adequate security measures. He encouraged religious institutions, especially those in vulnerable areas, to seek regular police protection during gatherings.

Speaking on the long-standing conflict between farmers and herders, Tinubu highlighted the creation of the Livestock Ministry. He described it as a pathway toward ending open grazing and reducing clashes. He urged herder associations to embrace ranching and surrender illegal weapons. According to him, “Ranching is now the path forward for sustainable livestock farming and national harmony.”

Tinubu expressed sympathy for families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara States. He paid tribute to fallen soldiers, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba, who lost their lives while defending the country. He warned that those trying to undermine the government’s efforts should not mistake restraint for weakness, saying his administration will remain firm in ensuring peace and stability.

He repeated his sympathy for families who lost loved ones in the attacks and again honoured the sacrifices of security personnel who died in action. He encouraged citizens to remain strong, saying, “Fellow Compatriots, I urge you not to give in to fear and never succumb to despair. Let’s stand together in purpose and strength to defend our freedom and values. Our administration will continue to guarantee peaceful co-existence and preserve our union.”

Tinubu called on Nigerians to stay vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security agencies. He ended the statement with a message of hope: “We are in this fight together, and together we shall win. May God continue to bless Nigeria and keep our armed forces safe.”

The statement was signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

MSME Conference 2025: Lagos hosts creators, business leaders

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MSME Conference 2025: Lagos hosts creators, business leaders

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.

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