Dr David Akpimegin has successfully defended his doctoral thesis on microfinance banking and the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Akpimegin defended the thesis, titled, “Microfinance Banking and the Growth and Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria (2010–2024),” at the Abuja Leadership Centre, University of Abuja.

The research examined the relationship between microfinance banking services and the growth and performance of SMEs in the FCT.

According to the study’s findings, access to microfinance services has a positive relationship with SME growth, while high interest rates remain a major constraint to access to finance.

The study also identified operational efficiency, effective regulation, financial literacy and business development support as important factors in creating an environment conducive to sustainable SME growth.

Akpimegin said the findings showed that access to credit alone could not address the challenges confronting small businesses, stressing the need for a broader support ecosystem to facilitate their long-term development.

The academic achievement builds on his background in banking and entrepreneurship, providing an opportunity to connect his practical industry experience with scholarship in public governance, leadership and economic development.

Speaking on the significance of the qualification, Akpimegin described the PhD as a responsibility to contribute to knowledge, support human development, strengthen institutions and participate in conversations on governance and economic development in Nigeria and beyond.

He also stressed the importance of responsible management of public resources, saying development should be assessed not only by the revenue generated by government but also by how effectively and responsibly such resources are deployed.

On Nigeria’s democratic development, Akpimegin called for peaceful participation, issue-based engagement, stronger institutions, respect for the rule of law and accountable leadership.

Rather than identifying political office as his immediate goal, he said his focus would remain on meaningful service through banking, research, public policy dialogue, leadership development, entrepreneurship and community service.

Akpimegin expressed appreciation to his supervisors, examiners, professors, colleagues, family members and friends for their support throughout his doctoral journey.

The PhD was awarded in Public Governance and Leadership through the Abuja Leadership Centre of the University of Abuja.