The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) is set to host its fifth annual lecture series on September 25, 2024, at the Transcorp Hotel in Abuja. The event, themed “Empowering Nigerian MSMEs in a Challenging Global Landscape,” will bring together industry experts and stakeholders to discuss the critical challenges facing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria and explore potential solutions.
The keynote speaker for the event will be Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc. Onyeali-Ikpe, a renowned figure in the Nigerian banking industry, will share her insights on the current economic climate and its implications for MSMEs.
A panel discussion featuring prominent industry leaders will also be held during the lecture series. The panel will include Abba Aliyu, Managing Director/CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency; Ajuma Ataguba, Managing Director of Founder Institute and Venture Partner at White Hibiscus Capital; and other notable experts. The panelists will discuss the specific challenges faced by MSMEs in Nigeria, such as access to finance, infrastructure, and market opportunities, and offer practical recommendations for overcoming these hurdles.
In his statement, Tony Okpanachi, the Managing Director/CEO of DBN, emphasized the importance of supporting MSMEs in Nigeria. He noted that despite their crucial role in the country’s economy, MSMEs are facing significant threats due to local, regional, and global challenges. Okpanachi highlighted the need for collaboration between the government, financial institutions, and private sector players to create a conducive environment for MSMEs to thrive.
“Access to affordable financing remains a major obstacle for MSMEs in Nigeria,” Okpanachi stated. “The disruptions in global supply chains have also impacted the production and profitability of these businesses. We believe that the DBN Annual Lecture Series can provide a platform for business leaders and stakeholders to come together and find innovative solutions to these challenges.”
The DBN Annual Lecture Series is one of the bank’s initiatives to support the government’s efforts in reviving the MSME sector. By bringing together experts from various fields, the event aims to generate creative ideas and practical solutions that can help MSMEs overcome the challenges they face and contribute to the overall economic growth of Nigeria.
The lecture series is expected to attract a diverse range of participants, including government officials, policymakers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and academics. The event will provide an opportunity for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among key stakeholders in the MSME ecosystem.
As Nigeria continues to navigate a challenging global landscape, the DBN Annual Lecture Series offers a valuable platform for discussing the critical issues facing MSMEs and exploring potential solutions. By empowering MSMEs, Nigeria can unlock their full potential and drive sustainable economic development.
