Nigerian businesses created 14,269 jobs across the country in 2025, according to a new report released in Lagos on Wednesday. The survey covered 10,882 enterprises in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. It showed small firms drove most gains, with 9,083 full-time and 5,186 part-time positions added.
Yet the sector lost 16,571 jobs overall, leading to a net drop of about 2,300. The report pointed to high costs from economic reforms like fuel subsidy removal and currency changes. Entrepreneurs faced tough barriers, but many showed grit in tough times.
The Entrepreneurship Index rose slightly to 0.47 out of 1.0, the first uptick since 2022. Nine in ten business owners felt confident about their future. Over half rated the operating environment as good or very good.
Female-led ventures outperformed others, with 69.2 per cent reporting growth against 65.8 per cent for male-led ones. They led in starting nano and micro businesses, especially in Jigawa, Kwara, and Adamawa states. Still, only 26.3 per cent secured formal funding.
Top states for entrepreneurship included:
- Kogi, with a score of 0.65
- Kwara, at 0.63
- Bauchi, scoring 0.60
- Strong performers: Lagos, Jigawa, Taraba
- Lowest ranks: Gombe (0.24), Imo (0.31), Kaduna (0.32)
Key hurdles persisted for a fourth year straight:
- Access to affordable credit
- Policy shifts
- Limited markets
- Weak support systems
The report urged fixes in finance, power, security, and rules to boost small firms. Officials called these steps vital to turn enterprises into industrial powerhouses. In a land where dreams often clash with daily struggles, such progress offers quiet hope for workers and families chasing stability.
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