…Call for Public Reorientation

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

LAGOS — Stakeholders in Nigeria’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) sector have urged the Federal and State Governments to create a more enabling environment for locally made products to thrive, emphasizing that such efforts are essential for national economic growth and diversification.

The call was made on Wednesday during a Business Engagement Forum and Press Conference for SMEs MINE FEST 2025, held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Centre, Alausa, Ikeja. The event is aimed at fostering dialogue and momentum for Nigeria’s entrepreneurial future.

Convener of the event, Tito Philips, and Co-Convener, Mr. Bunmi Kole-Dauda, in their separate addresses, emphasized the need for deliberate government policies that promote local production. They also called on Nigerians to reorient themselves and begin to actively patronize Made-in-Nigeria products.

Philips described MINE FEST 2025 as more than just an event, but a movement dedicated to celebrating, empowering, and elevating Nigerian excellence. He noted that the initiative is designed to showcase what Nigerians can produce and promote local innovation on a global scale.

“Investment in the production and consumption of Made-in-Nigeria products will boost SMEs and position Nigeria competitively in the global economy,” Philips stated. “We can no longer rely solely on oil. For our economy to grow, we must shift towards supporting local industries and reducing dependency on foreign goods.”

He further called for collective action, saying, “Nation-building is a shared responsibility. We invite investors, policymakers, corporate leaders, media partners, and development agencies to join us—not as observers, but as active participants.”

On MINE FEST 2025, Philips said the event will recognize 40 young entrepreneurs who are building the future of Nigeria through innovation and enterprise. “Let us commit to being the wind beneath the wings of these entrepreneurs—those who dare to dream and redefine what is possible,” he added.

Speaking on the importance of trust between producers and consumers, Mr. Kole-Dauda said building confidence in local products is key to reducing dependence on imports. “We need to be intentional about supporting our own. When there is truth and trust, standards will improve, and consumers will buy into the vision.”

He revealed that MINE FEST 2025 will hold from October 16 to 17, as a three-in-one event comprising a conference, exhibition, and award ceremony for SMEs that are at least 40 years old.

“We expect over 300 participants to attend physically, with more than 1,000 joining virtually,” he added.

The forum concluded with a renewed call for both public and private sector collaboration in supporting local entrepreneurship, as stakeholders agreed that sustainable economic development is impossible without strong local enterprise.