Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), has emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, innovation, and sustainability in driving the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the state.
The Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, represented by the Head of Department, Business Administration, Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim Abdullahi, made this known on Thursday, 18th September 2025, while delivering a goodwill message at the Nasarawa State Business Empowerment Summit held in Lafia.
The summit, themed “Entrepreneurship, Financial Inclusion, Innovation, and Sustainable Business Growth among MSMEs in Nasarawa,” gathered stakeholders from government, academia, and the private sector to discuss strategies for strengthening the state’s business ecosystem.
In her remarks, Professor Liman described entrepreneurship as “the backbone of the economy,” highlighting its role in driving innovation, creating jobs, and fostering community development. She noted that empowering MSMEs is vital for transforming not only Nasarawa’s economy but also Nigeria’s overall development outlook.
Speaking on financial inclusion, she pointed out the need for equitable access to financial services as a way of unlocking the potential of entrepreneurs. She encouraged business owners to consider non-conventional funding options such as crowdfunding, supplier credit, operating leases, strategic partnerships, and leaseback arrangements, which can provide flexible financing with little or no interest.
On the role of innovation, the Vice-Chancellor urged entrepreneurs to adopt emerging technologies, e-commerce platforms, automation, and other digital solutions to remain competitive in today’s global economy. She explained that digital transformation is no longer optional but a necessity for MSMEs to grow.
Professor Liman further stressed the importance of sustainable business practices, urging entrepreneurs to align profitability with social and environmental responsibility. According to her, “by integrating sustainability into business operations, we ensure that future generations inherit not just a thriving economy but also a healthier planet and equitable society.”
She called for collaboration among government, academia, and the business community to build a strong ecosystem that supports MSMEs, nurtures innovation, and promotes inclusive growth.
