NYSC, SMEDAN Partner For Robust Corps Empowerment

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost Corps Members’ capacity for job creation and youth empowerment.
The agreement was formalized at the SMEDAN Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria.
According to NYSC Director General Brigadier General Yushua Ahmed, this partnership will provide Corps Members with greater access to funds to finance their business ideas.

He emphasized that NYSC mobilizes over 400,000 Corps Members annually, equipping them with bankable business ideas and vocational skills to drive entrepreneurship and economic growth.

“This means, providing them with start-up capital is a sure way of improving Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product” he asserted.

On his part, the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of SMEDAN, Mr Charles Odii lauded Brigadier General Ahmed for his passion towards Corps Members’ empowerment.
He said the agency would leave no stoned unturned in pursuing Federal Government’s agenda on job creation.
Odii stated further that the MoU would empower Corps Members to fund their business ideas as SMEDAN aims to create 50,000 entrepreneurs in a year.
“Corps Members are graduates and if they are well trained, they will train and also empower other youths”, he added.

Charles Odii: The Mastermind Behind Nigeria’s SME Revolution

In a world where innovation and progress are the hallmarks of success, one man is redefining the landscape of Nigeria’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Charles Odii, the dynamic leader of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), is orchestrating a transformative revolution that is empowering entrepreneurs, creating jobs, and driving national growth.

In Charles Odii, the spirit of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda comes alive. Like a master craftsman, Odii is meticulously shaping the building blocks of Nigeria’s economic future, one innovative initiative at a time, to create a vibrant tapestry of prosperity and progress.

With his visionary approach and dedication, Odii has been instrumental in unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s SMEs. His trailblazing strategies and initiatives have been yielding remarkable results, drawing international attention and accolades. Under Odii’s leadership, SMEDAN has evolved into a powerhouse of economic transformation, providing critical support to SMEs and nurturing an ecosystem that inspires entrepreneurship, fosters creativity, and stimulates job creation.
Recognising the imperative of clean energy, Odii has launched a groundbreaking solar-powered garment-making center in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This pioneering facility is designed to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs), providing them with free access to modern garment-making equipment and eliminating the burdens of power costs, machine purchases, and maintenance. Over 120 entrepreneurs benefit from this facility daily, leveraging sustainable and uninterrupted energy supply to drive their businesses forward.

Odii’s visionary approach extends beyond the center’s operations. He has forged strategic partnerships with NIPOST and God Is Good Logistics, offering SMEs discounted distribution rates of 15% and 20%, respectively. This enables seamless delivery of finished products across Nigeria, further amplifying the center’s impact. Indeed, Odii’s initiative is a shining example of his foresight and pragmatism, tackling the pressing challenges faced by SMEs in Nigeria. By providing a sustainable and efficient energy solution, he is unlocking the potential of entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and contributing to a cleaner, greener future.

Odii has launched a groundbreaking solar-powered garment-making center, which has been replicated in Katsina and Osun States, with plans to expand to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. This center creates 700 direct and indirect jobs daily, mitigating unemployment and youth restiveness. Odii’s vision is to solidify SMEs as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, positioning the country competitively within the African Continental Free Trade Area. His efforts have already created over 15,000 jobs and facilitated over 7 billion naira in funding for SMEs. He has also secured a 5 Billion Naira Single-Digit Interest Loan through Sterling Bank to empower businesses.

Through his initiatives, Odii has revitalised economic activities in rural areas by providing N50, 000 as Conditional Grant Scheme (CGS) into Nano businesses, creating jobs and supporting families. He has collaborated with State Governments, including Anambra and Enugu, to provide 1 billion naira into MSMEs in each State under a matching fund agreement, further empowering entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth. Odii’s commitment to SME development is evident in his efforts to create a conducive business environment, providing access to finance, markets, and capacity building. His vision for Nigeria’s SME sector is inspiring, and his impact will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.

Odii’s launch of the Green Energy and Climate Change Desk has supported displaced businesses and promoted green energy solutions, addressing environmental challenges impacting businesses. To foster a motivated workforce, Odii constructed a state-of-the-art secretariat with modern work hubs, dedicated staff, and facilities such as a textile and garment hub for fashion businesses and a woodwork and furniture facility for artisans.

He also launched the SMEDAN Undergraduate Internship Program (SUIP) at Baze University, providing students with real-world business experience and resources to start, continue, and scale their businesses. Recognising the importance of women in national growth and development, Odii established the Women and Youth Desk Initiative, granting direct access to opportunities designed for women entrepreneurs.

Furthermore, he created the MSME CLINIC, a weekly one-stop shop where entrepreneurs, regulators, and experienced SME development professionals collaborate to provide mentorship and solutions. He has developed various initiative aimed at promoting farming and food production at the family level, encouraging Nigerians to cultivate a culture of gardening and healthy eating from the comfort of their own homes in consonance with the EveryHomeAGarden of the First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

Charles Odii’s creativity knows no bounds, he has transformed and equipped the workforce into a mobile digitally transformed workplace of efficient and effective workplace, thereby engendering higher productivity, progress tracking, with various social clubs that promote healthy lifestyle, focus, and instil a sense of shared mission and peaceful co-existence.

Charles Odii is an enigma. A rare gem and a replica of what President wanted in the youths of our country. He has shown resilience. He is ubiquitous, touching akll facets and segments of the life of the nation, demonstrating capacity and tenacity of purpose, and proving eloquently and incontrovertibly what happens when innovation meets with passion and both are wed-locked to opportunity. He is indeed the legendary Archimedes’ of our time and have found the answer to national development and economic growth.

Imagine a Nigeria where entrepreneurship is the engine that drives growth, innovation, and prosperity. A Nigeria where small businesses thrive, creating jobs, wealth, and opportunities for all. This is the Nigeria that Charles Odii envisions, and he’s working tirelessly to make it a reality. Through his groundbreaking initiatives, he’s empowering entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and unlocking the full potential of the SME sector.

In the not-too-distant future, historians will look back on Charles Odii’s legacy and marvel at the transformative impact he had on Nigeria’s economy. They’ll tell stories of how he ignited a spark that fueled a revolution in entrepreneurship, innovation, and growth. And as they reflect on his remarkable journey, they’ll be reminded that even the smallest actions can have a profound impact when driven by vision, passion, and a commitment to creating a better future.

Ochonu is a public affairs analyst writing from Abuja.

OPS Businesses Lose N2.5trn to Administrative Bottlenecks – DG SMEDAN.

Members of the Organised Private Sector, including the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, and the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture have expressed worry over the N2.5tn annual losses by the business community to administrative bottlenecks.

The Director-General of SMEDAN, Mr Charles Odii, said the group plans to engage with the relevant agencies to streamline the processes required to address this anomaly.

Last week, the Federal Government through the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said the Nigerian business community was losing N2.5tn annually to delays and administrative bureaucratic bottlenecks.

He disclosed this in Lagos while speaking at the stakeholders’ forum on establishing the National Single Window.

Oyetola while quoting a report by the World Bank added that the cost of doing business in Nigeria was 40 per cent higher than what was obtainable in other West African countries.

“As highlighted by the World Bank, the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports can be up to 40 per cent higher than in other West African countries due to delays and administrative bottlenecks, leading to an estimated annual revenue loss of N2.5tn within the business community,” Oyetola said.

He, however, expressed hope that the implementation of the NSW could enhance efficiency, “potentially reducing these costs by at least 25 per cent.”

According to him, by streamlining operations, improving transparency, and minimising delays, the system not only drives cost savings but also strengthens overall trade facilitation.The former Osun State Governor mentioned that the cumulative impact across all areas, including reduced costs, enhanced efficiency, and greater transparency, ultimately contributes to the overall ease of doing business.

Reacting to this, the Director-General of the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, Mr Sola Obadimu, said, “The issue is self-explanatory; we need a more efficient processing procedure at the ports to hasten processing time such that people who are exporting perishable items, for example, can get to their destination on time.

“So that business can beat their deadlines so that the government can make more money and all these losses will be stopped. When the ports are efficient, it will yield more money to the government and businesses. If businesses conclude their transaction on time they will make more money.”

On his part, the SMEDAN DG, Odii, said, “At SMEDAN we are actively engaging relevant agencies and levels of government to streamline processes and create a more supportive environment for SMEs.”

He said one of the major initiatives of the group is the introduction of a reform-focused ranking system to encourage the adoption of policies and systems that ease business operations, reduce bureaucratic delays, and improve service delivery for SMEs.

“This will help track and evaluate government agencies on their efforts to remove bottlenecks that hinder Small and Medium Enterprises’ growth,” he stated.

Odii added that the group recognises that beyond policy reforms, SMEs must also be equipped to navigate regulatory frameworks and leverage digital solutions that simplify compliance.

“Addressing both structural challenges and SME capacity gaps, we are working to ensure that Nigerian businesses can grow with fewer constraints, contribute meaningfully to the economy, and compete effectively in both local and global markets,” Odii stated.

SOURCE: The PUNCH

Osun State strengthens partnership with SMEDAN on MSME development

The Executive Governor of Osun State, His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke has made a commitment to deepen the existing relationship with SMEDAN under the leadership of @the_c.o.o. This was made known during the 4 day Opportunity Fair which held in the Oshogbo, the State Capital.

Dr. Adeleke commended the numerous innovations introduced by Mr Charles Odii in boosting the global competitiveness of MSMEs in Nigeria. The Governor further expressed his commitment to enter into an MOU with SMEDAN to birth a single digit interest funding facility for MSMEs in the State. This he said, will go a long way in accelerating economic growth in the state.

The Director General @the_c.o.o while speakkng about the G.R.O.W. strategy of SMEDAN, appreciated the Executive Governor for his several exploits in urban renewal. He informed the good people of the state that "poverty has no political affiliation, hence the need to collaborate across all divisive lines to support the growth of MSMEs".

The event was attended by numerous members of the state cabinet led by the Deputy Governor as well as the Commissioner for Commerce and Industries.

#hereforprosperity
#GROWNigerian
#SMEDAN

***We are converting 1 million vehicles Free of Charge***

The EVC Presidential Initiative on CNG, Chief Toyin Subair announced that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has graciously approved the conversion of one million commercial vehicles to CNG powered vehicles. He stated this at the commissioning of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) facility at SMEDAN CorporateHeadquarters in Abuja. Mr Subair informed the gathering that the Pi-CNG is already working with Transport Unions and Associations to compile data of commercial vehicles who are to benefit.

This is a welcome news to MSMES who are into transportation as the conversion of their vehicles will lead to over 200% slash in cost of refueling their vehicles.

The invited guests were later presented with Grow Nigerian Gift Boxes, an Initiative of Mr Charles Odii @the_c.o.o to promote the culture of patronizing Made in Nigeria products.

Think Big Start Small...Prosper

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria is poised to commission a cutting-edge facility for converting petroleum-powered vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) within its Industrial Complex in Idu Layout, Abuja. CNG is emerging as a preferred option for MSMEs focused on reducing operational expenditures.

Under the stewardship of Mr CharlesOdii, , SMEDAN is dedicated to providing MSMEs with expert guidance, resources, opportunities, and workplace support to enhance their global competitiveness. Interested parties are invited to reach out and initiate the vehicle conversion process. SMEDAN remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering prosperity.

Credit:
Corporate Affairs Unit,
SMEDAN

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has entrusted Vice President Kashim Shettima with the responsibility of heading Nigeria's delegation to the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

VP Shettima is set to participate alongside King Charles of England and various global leaders from 56 member nations at the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa, a small Pacific island. This inaugural gathering, scheduled for October 21 to 26, will focus on the theme "One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth."

New Challenge for LG Autonomy as Soludo Proposes Legislation for Fund Deductions.

The proposed legislation aims to compel local government areas (LGAs) to transfer a share of their federal allocations into a unified account managed by the state.

There are growing concerns in Anambra State that the local government autonomy, which was recently reaffirmed by the Supreme Court, could encounter challenges due to a new bill introduced by Governor Charles Soludo.

On Tuesday, Hon. Henry Mbachu, who represents the Awka South I constituency Labour Party, voiced his worries and called on the governor to retract the bill that has been presented to the Anambra State House of Assembly.

Mbachu contended that if the bill were to be enacted, it would enable the state government to access funds designated for local government councils, which could jeopardize their financial autonomy.

Governor Soludo stood by the bill, claiming that it aligns with the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy. He encouraged anyone who disagrees with his stance to pursue legal action.

The Secretary to the Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Emma Madu, has confirmed that the assembly approved the bill known as the Anambra Local Government Administration Law 2024 on Tuesday.

According to the bill, Section 13(1) specifies that the state is required to establish a “State Joint Local Government Account.” All federal allocations intended for Local Government Areas (LGAs) are mandated to be deposited.

According to Section 14(3), every Local Government Area (LGA) must remit a certain percentage, as set by the state, to the consolidated account within two business days of obtaining their allocations from the Federation Account. This requirement applies even if the allocations come directly from the Federation Account.

Section 14(4) specifies that when the state receives the allocation meant for the LGA, it is required to withhold a designated percentage before transferring the remaining amount to the LGA.

In response, Mbachu raised apprehensions regarding the bill's potential negative impact on local government administration. He cautioned that the suggested deductions could limit the capacity of Local Government Areas (LGAs) to independently oversee their federally allocated funds.

Mbachu urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to keep a close watch on governors who could potentially hinder advancements in local government elections by pressuring elected chairpersons to funnel funds to the state government.

SMEDAN set to host 2024 National MSME Conference

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has announced the 2024 edition of the National MSME Conference, themed “GROW NIGERIAN: Sustaining an Innovation and Digital-Driven Economy.”

The event, the nation’s leading annual development conference, will be opened by the President, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. It will take place from October 3rd to 5th, 2024, at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, with support from the German International Agency (GIZ) and Mastercard.

Mr. Charles Odii, Director-General/CEO of SMEDAN, described the event as the most significant convergence of entrepreneurs, policymakers, enablers, public-private sector stakeholders, and supporting institutions in Nigeria’s SME ecosystem.

The conference will focus on driving development in the MSME sector within the eight key sectors identified in the GROW Nigerian strategy introduced by Director-General Charles Odii to strengthen Nigeria’s local production potential and raise export revenue. This will be achieved through the provision of Guidance, Opportunities, Resources, and Workforce Support to SMEs by SMEDAN.
The sectors include agriculture, light manufacturing, fashion, creative and entertainment, digital and innovation, tourism, and education.

Nigeria’s most successful entrepreneurs and renowned experts have confirmed their attendance at the event. They include Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings; Hakeem Belo-Osagie, Chairman of Metis Capital Partners; and Jonathan Ortmans, Founder and President of the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN).

A key highlight of the event is the planned premiere of the second season of the popular drama series The Smart Money Woman by Arese Ugwu, who will attend the conference with co-stars such as Timini Egbuson and Osas Ighodaro.


The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has announced the 2024 edition of the National MSME Conference, themed “GROW NIGERIAN: Sustaining an Innovation and Digital-Driven Economy.”

The event, the nation’s leading annual development conference, will be opened by the President, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. It will take place from October 3rd to 5th, 2024, at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, with support from the German International Agency (GIZ) and Mastercard.

Mr. Charles Odii, Director-General/CEO of SMEDAN, described the event as the most significant convergence of entrepreneurs, policymakers, enablers, public-private sector stakeholders, and supporting institutions in Nigeria’s SME ecosystem.

The conference will focus on driving development in the MSME sector within the eight key sectors identified in the GROW Nigerian strategy introduced by Director-General Charles Odii to strengthen Nigeria’s local production potential and raise export revenue. This will be achieved through the provision of Guidance, Opportunities, Resources, and Workforce Support to SMEs by SMEDAN.
The sectors include agriculture, light manufacturing, fashion, creative and entertainment, digital and innovation, tourism, and education.

Conference activities will include one-stop shops featuring heads of government agencies and financial and compliance organizations, such as NAFDAC, CAC, SON, Nigeria Customs, BOI, NEXIM, NEPC, NIPC, FIRS, and more.

There will also be an exhibition showcasing innovative products and services from SMEs across the country. Participating businesses will receive expert advice and guidance at a Business Clinic, interacting with agencies and institutions to address structural issues and challenges.

Prominent thought leaders, including Chude Jideonwo, the Co-founder of Red Media and Joy Inc., will lead masterclasses focused on digital skills development, accessing finance, business scaling, and leveraging trade agreements such as AGOA and AfCFTA.

Additional activities will include a deals room where scalable businesses will obtain investments from venture capital firms; a pitch competition for entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas and receive funding; and networking events to facilitate connections and partnerships.

The conference will conclude with an award ceremony led by the Vice President, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, on the final day. Government actors from across the six regions will be recognized for their contributions to SME development through reforms, financial investments, targeted infrastructure, and other developmental contributions.

Interested participants can register to attend the event at https://www.smedan.gov.ng/msmeconference.