The Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM) in partnership with Deutsche Gesellschaft Fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) has launched a new programme to improve access to trade and export financing for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria. The initiative, themed ‘Enhancing Access to Trade and Export Financing for MSME Export,’ took place at Valada Hotels in Jos, Plateau State.
According to the organizers, the programme is a strategic response to the challenges faced by MSMEs in accessing finance and technical support. They explained that the initiative aims to strengthen MSME export clusters and enhance their competitiveness in the global market. The partnership focuses on supporting MSMEs in critical sectors such as manufacturing, agro-processing, solid minerals, and services to boost Nigeria’s export performance.
Speaking during the event, the Trade and Sector Adviser of GIZ, Raymond Dangana, emphasized the importance of export financing for small businesses. He said, “The SME Export Finance Sensitization Forum is a key component of this initiative. We believe that by improving access to finance, we can increase the competitiveness of Nigerian MSMEs in the global market.”
Dangana added that GIZ’s goal is to promote sustainable economic development by empowering local businesses with the tools and financial backing needed to access international trade opportunities. He noted that many MSMEs face difficulties in meeting export standards due to limited funding and lack of technical know-how, challenges the new programme seeks to address.
Also speaking, the Head of Specialized Business at NEXIM, Mr. Awami Mohammed, explained that the bank remains committed to bridging the financial gap faced by MSMEs. He said, “NEXIM is committed to supporting SMEs in Nigeria by providing them with the necessary finance to grow their businesses. We recognize the importance of SMEs in stimulating the Nigerian economy, and we’re committed to helping them overcome the challenges they face, such as lack of finance, inadequate infrastructure, and market access.”
Mohammed further outlined NEXIM’s priority areas, saying, “We believe that by supporting sectors like manufacturing, agro-processing, solid minerals, and services, we can increase the country’s export earnings and stimulate economic growth.” He reiterated that the bank’s ongoing efforts aim to empower local businesses to scale up production and participate more actively in global markets.
The Acting Head of NEXIM’s Makurdi Regional Office, Mr. Simeon John, also shared insights on the bank’s work at the regional level. “NEXIM is committed to providing finance to SMEs in Nigeria, and we’re working hard to ensure that our products are accessible to them,” he said, adding that the bank continues to expand its outreach to different parts of the country to reach more entrepreneurs.
In her remarks, the Deputy Director of Export Development and Incentives at the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Ella Onoja, stressed the importance of enhancing export readiness and improving market access for small businesses. “SMEs are the backbone of the Nigerian economy, and it’s essential that we support them in accessing international markets. The NEPC is committed to working with NEXIM and other stakeholders to increase the country’s export earnings and stimulate economic growth,” she said.
Onoja added that the initiative would significantly impact the Nigerian economy by increasing export capacity, driving productivity, and improving access to finance. “By providing MSMEs with access to finance and technical support, NEXIM and GIZ hope to improve the competitiveness of Nigerian businesses in the global market. As the Nigerian economy continues to face challenges, initiatives such as this are crucial in supporting SMEs and promoting economic growth. With the right support, Nigerian SMEs can thrive and contribute significantly to the country’s economic development,” she added.