FG, FIRS rally support for MSME finance awards, set to empower entrepreneurs
By Esther Agbo
The Federal Government and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) have thrown their weight behind the 2024 Annual MSME Finance Awards, an event aimed at recognising institutions that champion financial inclusion and promote the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria.
The event, organised by The Economic Forum Series, Nairametrics, and DiGiComm Enterprises, is scheduled for September 27, according to a recent statement.
Speaking on the significance of the awards, the Chief Executive Officer of Economic Forum Media Limited, Jude Ndu, highlighted the growing role of MSMEs in driving the Nigerian economy, noting that, “This year’s MSME Finance Awards is a testament to the growing importance of MSMEs in the Nigerian economy. It provides a platform to celebrate institutions that are ensuring financial services reach the grassroots, helping to stimulate economic growth.”
However, notable categories to be recognised at the event include MSME Bank of the Year, Best MSME FinTech Payment Platform, Best MSME Microfinance Bank, and MSME Insurance Company of the Year, among others.
The Chief Executive Officer of Nairametrics, Ugodre Obi-Chukwu, underscored the importance of data in empowering MSMEs, explaining that knowledge-driven insights are crucial for the growth of small businesses.
“At Nairametrics, we are focused on empowering MSMEs with the knowledge and data they need to make informed decisions,” he said.
Similarly, the CEO of DiGiComm Enterprises, Ukaobisike Uzoije, noted that the awards would go beyond recognition, creating a platform for thought leadership and dialogue on the future of financial inclusion in Nigeria’s MSME sector.
“This event will bring together key players in the MSME space to discuss the future of financial inclusion and its impact on small businesses in Nigeria,” he remarked.
The event has garnered support from institutions such as the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Enhancing Financial Innovation & Access (EFInA), and the Fintech Association of Nigeria. Additionally, financial giants like Access Bank, Sterling Bank, and Heirs Insurance are expected to play key roles during the ceremony.
In a related development, the Federal Government has announced plans to recognize outstanding entrepreneurs with monetary incentives during the 2024 MSMEs Week.
According to the Senior Special Assistant on Job Creation and MSMEs, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, these incentives will include houses, cars, and cash prizes, aimed at rewarding innovation and resilience in Nigeria’s entrepreneurial space.
