…as Lagos govt expresses readiness

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

An indigenous entrepreneur, Chief Executive Officer, Centino Group of companies, Dr. Innocent Nnamene, has called for a holistic collaboration of all tiers of government to serve as catalyst for the growth of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, SMEs in Nigeria business ecosystems.

Nnamene, made the call at the closing ceremony of the Year 2024 Lagos International Trade Fair on Sunday, held at Tafa Balewa Square, TBS, Lagos, organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, with theme; “Connecting Businesses, Creating Values.”

He stressed said that government must continue to provide enabling environment and policies that will ensure survival and growth of businesses, particularly, SMEs in the present harsh economic situation in the country.

Nnamene, maintained that with government providing necessary incentives SMEs could ultimately enhance growth of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product, GDP.

According to him, “Raising and encouraging more entrepreneurs will act as a catalyst in the implementation of government policies, hence, the need for all tiers of government to support SMEs initiatives towards growth.

“The micro, small and medium-scale enterprises’ segment as the mainstay of the economy cannot be overemphasized in its provision of jobs.

“Government at all levels must create more efficient business environment where enterprises, both large and small, can thrive for national development.”

Instructively, Centino Group of companies, specializes in automotive products like super Stallion Lubricants, Stallion brake pads and the Super Gold spare parts line, the company’s reach extends far beyond the shores of Nigeria.

Under Dr. Nnamene’s leadership, Centino Global, spanning over three decades has built an empire in manufacturing, oil and gas, real estate and more.

According to Nnamene, “The conglomerate business which started from such modest means, with entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering determination has overcome many obstacles.

“Today, Centino is a major job creator, empowering and creating job opportunities for many Nigerians across its subsidiaries. And despite his vast wealth and success, we remain grounded in the roots, supporting education, healthcare and poverty alleviation initiatives in Enugu, and Lagos at ASPAMDA, the Headquarters and Nigeria at large.”

Speaking on the occasion, Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, however, assured business community of an enabling environment that is powered by a digital-friendly economy which will open paths to commercial activities towards growing national economy.

Sanwo-Olu reiterated his administration’s commitment to building a digital space that will galvanise economic development at all levels as Lagos remained a city where innovation and resilience meet.

The governor, explained that the theme of the event aligned with Lagos State’s vision to foster partnerships, drive innovation, and build an environment where businesses of all sizes can thrive.

“At the start of our administration, we recognized both the privilege and responsibility of leading a state with such vibrancy—a state of over 20 million people, a major contributor to Nigeria’s GDP, and Africa’s fifth-largest economy. Guided by the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Development Agenda, we set out to transform Lagos into a true megacity, one that competes globally and nurtures an ecosystem for growth and prosperity.

“By advancing partnerships with tech hubs, offering incentives for digital startups, and fostering a tech-driven environment, we are positioning Lagos as a preferred destination for innovative solutions. Recognizing our strategic role within Africa, we have also established the Lagos State Technical Working Group on AfCFTA to prepare our businesses to leverage the trade benefits within Africa.

“Sustainability remains central to our growth strategy, and we are taking decisive steps toward becoming a cleaner, greener Lagos. Through initiatives that prioritize renewable energy, waste management, and eco-friendly policies, we are creating a sustainable city that balances economic opportunities with environmental stewardship, benefiting current and future generations,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu affirmed that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, MSMEs, are the backbone of any vibrant economy, and Lagos is no exception, as it was working assiduously through different agencies to support tech startups and other skills to enable Small Medium Enterprises, SMEs, thrive in both local and global markets.

The Governor, who was elated to have seen how business community embraced the opportunities at the Trade Fair, however urged every critical stakeholders to collaborate, innovate and push forward shared vision of a prosperous, inclusive and resilient Lagos.

The State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, said the fair underscored the commitment of the state government in equipping and enhancing business partnership with private sector thereby leveraging technology to position Lagos as a gateway to Nigerian and African Markets.

“Going forward she “As we approach 2025, our Ministry, under the able guidance of Mr. Governor, has set even more ambitious goals to boost commerce, cooperatives, trade and investment activities in the State, “she assured.