Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has canvassed an enabling environment through the provision of infrastructure, access to finance and capacity workshops to drive economic growth.
 
Its Treasurer, Richard Ayibiowu, appealed to the yearly Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Fair held at Alausa, Lagos over the weekend
 
The event was designed to help MSMEs in scaling and sustaining their businesses, especially by empowering startups and business owners with practical strategies to drive long-term success.
 
Ayibiowu stated that some of the ideas generated from the dialogue, if properly implemented, would stabilise the economy and drive growth.
 
Speaking on the theme, “Galvanising MSMEs for Economic Growth and Stability, the treasurer urged that MSMEs should be encouraged to demonstrate their capacity, realise their potential, and contribute to economic growth.
 
He called for innovative and inclusive approaches to MSMEs’ development, urging public and private sector players to treat support for MSMEs as a long-term investment.
 
Ayibiowu added that commitment to MSMEs must go beyond financial returns, while specific grants and non-commercial support are needed.

Delivering her keynote address, the Managing Director of Fate Foundation, Adenike Adeyemi, emphasised the need for a favourable operating environment for MSMEs in Nigeria, noting that without their active contribution, meaningful economic development in the country would remain elusive.
 
She said: “To truly unlock the potential of MSMEs as a cornerstone for economic growth and national stability, we must foster an environment where stakeholders are empowered and encouraged to demonstrate their capabilities and contributions. This starts with a strong policy framework, one that guarantees access to infrastructure, professional financial guidance, and sustained government support.