Nigeria is intensifying efforts to digitise its Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector in a bid to harness opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Vice President Kashim Shettima has said.
Speaking during the inauguration of the Oversight Committee for the upcoming 4th AU MSME Forum, Shettima noted that the government is investing in infrastructure, talent, and digital platforms to enable small businesses scale beyond national borders.
He said initiatives such as the i-DICE fund and the 3 Million Tech Talent programme are being deployed to build digital skills, promote innovation, and support export-ready enterprises in tech and creative sectors.
According to the VP, Nigeria’s commitment includes aligning trade and investment policies with AfCFTA protocols and creating structures to support seamless cross-border digital trade.
“We are not just preparing businesses to thrive locally; we’re laying the foundation for them to lead continentally,” he stated.
Set to hold in Abuja on June 23, the AU MSME Forum is expected to bring together regional stakeholders to strategise on strengthening Africa’s informal economy through access to finance, innovation, and policy support.
Officials across ministries and agencies pledged Nigeria’s readiness to host the forum and ensure MSMEs benefit from improved financing and market access.
