The Small and Medium Enterprises Development of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has launched three digital platforms to promote and enhance the growth of micro, small and medium scale enterprises (MSMEs) in the country to drive sustainable economic development.
The three digital platforms – the Market Hub App developed in partnership with Concrete Communications Limited, the MSMEs Digital Academy, and the MSMEs Equipment Exhibition Portal will help position Nigerian MSMEs on a global scale.
Dikko Umaru Radda, director-general and chief executive officer, SMEDAN during the launch of the platforms said that technology has indeed made the world a global village and has made it possible to easily connect with people, adding that with these in mind SMEDAN has partnered with indigenous and strategic organisations within the digital space to further the development of MSMEs in Nigeria.
Speaking about the market hub app, Radda said it one-stop online convergence of all small and medium businesses including service providers.
“It is positioned to be the number one business directorate app in Nigeria where you can visit and check out uploaded businesses and services, their contact details and also upload your businesses for prospective view and contact,” he said.
“Our resources persons are also online to address enquires on the ease of doing business in Nigeria and also others you might be seeking clarification on,” he further said.
“I urge all business owners in Nigeria to download this app and upload their services offering and products and take advantage of the service to promote their businesses and enhance growth,” he advised.
Speaking also during the launch, Mariam Yalwaji Katagum, Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment said that technology is an important means to stimulate economic efficiency of MSMEs and a source to attain sustainable development.
She said the productivity of MSMEs can be further improved through technological innovation and engaging in research and development (R&D) related activities.
The minister of state said that the digital platforms launched have been carefully designed and developed to ensure that MSMEs who are desirous of improving their businesses can utilize them for improved sales and knowledge enhancement.
“I encourage all MSMEs in Nigeria and across Africa to start utilizing them for the benefit of their businesses,” Katagum said.
Explaining how the market hub app works Semoore Badejo, chief executive officer, Concrete Communications Limited – developers of the app says the app is built to capture all businesses in Nigeria irrespective of the nature of business.
“It acts as a business directory and medium to foster great intersection between business and business and business and visitors to the app,” Badejo said.
“It is convergence points for Nigerians and business owners all over the world who wish to establish links, contacts to suppliers of inputs to their businesses, make enquires on the ease of doing business in the country,” he said.
