Kosofe Chamber of Commerce Hosts Economic Dialogue to Empower SMEs
By Blessing Joe
LAGOS/Nigeria: In a bid to strengthen small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) and foster economic growth, the Kosofe Chamber of Commerce, Lagos, held an insightful economic dialogue aimed at addressing the challenges and opportunities facing local businesses. The event, which took place on Thursday the 26th, at Fish Farm center, Ogudu, brought together industry experts, business leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to discuss strategies for enhancing the sustainability of SMEs in Nigeria.
The dialogue, titled “SME Sustainability & Innovation- Bridging the Gap” focused on the pivotal role that small and medium-scale businesses play in Nigeria’s economic development. The discussions covered critical areas such as access to finance, strategies, market expansion, regulatory frameworks, and the importance of innovation and skill development in driving business growth. 
Cross-Section of Discussants at the Dialogue, with President of the Kosofe Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Joe Femi-Dagunro, (Second Right)
In his welcome address, President of the Kosofe Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Joe Femi-Dagunro, emphasized the importance of SMEs in job creation, poverty alleviation, sustainability and overall economic growth. “It is not about complain today, it is about getting opportunities to sustain your business and motivation to grow your business.“ He further hinted that by this time next year another event will take place and will be a review of the success of the event and the rise of more businesses as a result of the economic dialogue.
The event featured an opening address from the President & Chairman of Council, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr. Gabriel Idahosa, as well as goodwill messages from several dignitaries, including Honourable Sanni Ganiyu, member representing Kosofe 01 Lagos State House of Assembly, the Chairman of Kosofe Local Government Barrister Moyosore Ogunlewe, and other dignitaries. The keynote speaker Dr. Muda Yusuf who is the Founder/CEO- Center for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), shared his expertise on business development, financial management, and government policies that support entrepreneurship.
Cross-Section of Guests at the Event
One key highlight was a panel discussion on improving value added services for SMEs, during which participants discussed the role of both private and public sectors in providing support and creating favorable business environments.
Attendees also engaged in interactive sessions where entrepreneurs shared success stories, as well as the obstacles they encountered as business owners. Also, attendees were given the opportunity to throw questions to the panel members.
The Kosofe Chamber of Commerce economic dialogue stands as parts of a broader initiative to foster economic growth in Nigeria, aiming to bridge the gap between policy and practice instead of complain and negligence, while creating a thriving ecosystem for SMEs.
This event is expected to have a lasting impact on local businesses as they continue to drive economic diversification and innovation in the region.
