The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has officially revealed that Professor Hakeem Belo-Osagie will be one of the keynote speakers at the highly anticipated National MSME Conference 2024. The announcement, which was made via SMEDAN’s official Instagram page, is seen as a significant move in the agency’s ongoing efforts to drive the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria.
Professor Belo-Osagie, a renowned Harvard University professor and accomplished entrepreneur, is well-respected for his expertise in business strategy and leadership. As the Chairman of Metis Capital and FSDH Holding Company, he has garnered widespread recognition for his innovative approaches to business management and success, making him an ideal figure to inspire Nigeria’s burgeoning SMEs. His keynote address at the conference is expected to provide valuable insights into scaling businesses in a rapidly evolving, digital-driven economy.
The National MSME Conference 2024, set to take place from the 3rd to the 5th of October, is themed “GROW NIGERIAN: Sustaining an Innovation and Digital-Driven Economy.” This year’s edition aims to bring together entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, and stakeholders to discuss innovative strategies for fostering SME growth across Nigeria.
According to Charles Odii, the Director-General of SMEDAN, the event is poised to be the most significant convergence of public and private sector participants in Nigeria’s SME ecosystem. Odii emphasized the importance of this year’s conference in strengthening the partnership between SMEs and enabling institutions, especially as Nigeria navigates complex economic challenges. The conference will provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration, facilitating long-term growth opportunities for small businesses across various sectors.
Professor Belo-Osagie’s participation is not only a recognition of his leadership but also highlights the importance of fostering collaboration between local entrepreneurs and global thought leaders. His extensive experience in finance, investments, and entrepreneurship, coupled with his passion for education, makes him a pivotal figure in shaping the discourse at the conference.
The National MSME Conference 2024 will also serve as a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to network with investors, secure partnerships, and gain access to critical resources necessary for scaling their businesses. The event’s diverse lineup of speakers and participants reflects SMEDAN’s commitment to supporting a broad spectrum of industries, from technology to agriculture and manufacturing.
As the 2024 National MSME Conference draws near, the involvement of figures like Professor Belo-Osagie underscores the growing recognition of SMEs as key drivers of Nigeria’s economy. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, the event aims to equip SMEs with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in today’s globalized world. SMEDAN continues to play a crucial role in facilitating these conversations and creating avenues for small businesses to contribute meaningfully to national development.
