In a major push to empower young entrepreneurs and small businesses, the Federal Government has announced strategic collaborations aimed at expanding access to funding, mentorship, and digital solutions across Nigeria.
Through these partnerships, young entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will benefit from business funding, leadership training, and mentorship programs facilitated by key agencies, including the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC). The initiative seeks to leverage digital innovation to promote sustainable employment, nurture youth-led businesses, and strengthen Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Honourable Minister for Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, underscored the significance of the initiative in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda. He highlighted the vital roles of the NYSC and CLTC in equipping young Nigerians with essential skills for business success.
Strengthening SMEs with Digital Payment Solutions
In further support of small businesses, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has partnered with Flutterwave to provide micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) with enhanced digital payment solutions, improved financial access, and capacity-building programs.
The collaboration will enable MSMEs to accept multiple payment methods—including mobile wallets, card payments, and bank transfers—while also gaining access to working capital loans and credit facilities. SMEDAN’s Director-General and CEO, Charles Odii, noted that the initiative aligns with the agency’s mission to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian businesses in the global market.
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Driving Nigeria’s Digital Economy
To accelerate digital transformation, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has engaged Flutterwave in leading key initiatives to improve digital adoption among SMEs. NITDA’s Director-General and CEO, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, emphasized that increasing access to digital infrastructure is crucial for national economic growth.
Olugbenga Agboola, Founder and CEO of Flutterwave, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Nigerian youth and SMEs through technology-driven solutions. He stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in fostering innovation and long-term economic sustainability.
Presidential Commitment to Youth and Business Development
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who concluded the discussions, emphasized the critical role of collaboration in empowering Nigeria’s youth and business community. He reiterated his administration’s dedication to equipping the next generation with the necessary tools to thrive in an increasingly competitive global economy.
