By Providence Ayanfeoluwa

Key policy stakeholders within Nigeria’s entrepreneurship ecosystem are set to lead discussions on data insights from the FATE Institute at 10th Policy Dialogue Series, PDS, on entrepreneurship put together by FATE Foundation.

The policy dialogue themed: “Nigeria in the Next Decade, Building a Thriving Entrepreneurial Ecosystem for the Future”, is billed for November 20 and 21, 2024, to be held at the Ecobank Center, Lagos.

The foundation said conversations would also focus on findings from the “State of Entrepreneurship” reports using an in-depth explorative approach, resulting in key agreements and recommendations that drive innovative approaches to entrepreneurship policy design, review, and implementation.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, Executive Director, FATE Foundation, Mrs. Adenike Adeyemi, said that past editions of the PDS have yielded significant impact, informing policy reforms and initiatives that have supported thousands of Nigerian entrepreneurs.

She revealed that The FATE Institute’s research reports, particularly the state of entrepreneurship reports, have provided valuable insights that have guided business incubation programs, accelerator initiatives, and regulatory reforms.

Adeyemi said: “We are excited to host the 10th edition of our PDS, a milestone that underscores our commitment to fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria. “This year’s theme reflects our focus on shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

“We look forward to convening key stakeholders to explore critical levers for growth, identify innovative solutions, and drive collective action towards a more vibrant entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Also, President, Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria, Dr. Femi Egbesola, said that initiatives like the PDS was crucial in addressing the pressing challenges faced by Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, MSMEs, such as access to finance, regulatory hurdles, and infrastructure deficits.

Egbesola said: “I commend the great work that the institute is doing to provide data-driven insights and policy recommendations that foster an enabling environment for entrepreneurship in Nigeria. 

“I urge policymakers to heed the recommendations emanating from this forum and work towards creating a more supportive ecosystem that empowers Nigerian entrepreneurs to drive innovation, job creation, and economic growth.”

In her remark, Director, The FATE Institute, Ms. Amaka Nwaokolo, added “As we mark a decade of impactful policy dialogues, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering Nigerian entrepreneurs. The FATE Institute’s 10th Policy Dialogue Series represents a critical milestone in our journey to create a supportive ecosystem.

“ We believe that by bringing together stakeholders to share insights and shape policy, we can unlock the full potential of Nigerian entrepreneurship, driving growth, job creation, and socio-economic transformation.”