Ogun State Governor, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, has been honoured as Best Governor in Enterprise and Investment Promotion (2025) at the 5th Nigeria National Small Business Awards. The recognition celebrates his administration’s unwavering commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, supporting small businesses, and driving inclusive economic growth across the state.
The awards ceremony hosted by the Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria, held in Lagos, also saw the Ogun State Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency (OgunInvest) clinch the title of Most Vibrant State Investment Promotion Agency, while the Special Adviser to the Governor on Investment and Deputy Director General of OgunInvest, Ms. Sola Arobieke, was named SME Hero in Public Service for her strategic leadership in empowering small businesses and championing innovation within the public sector.
Speaking during a panel discussion at the event, themed “Sustainable Business Practices: The New Competitive Advantage for SMEs,” Ms. Arobieke emphasized the central role of strategic planning, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration in building resilient and sustainable Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in today’s fast-evolving economy.
Moderating the session titled “Building Resilient and Sustainable SMEs: Strategies for Long-Term Growth and Global Competitiveness,” she described sustainable business practices as the new edge for forward-looking SMEs, urging entrepreneurs to embrace innovation, adaptability, and long-term planning.
“From microinsurance and risk management—which shield businesses from unforeseen shocks—to the vital roles of funding, technology, and capacity building, every element contributes significantly to shaping a resilient SME ecosystem,” Arobieke noted.
She highlighted how digital infrastructure and e-commerce continue to transform the SME landscape, making it easier for businesses to scale, access new markets, and remain agile in the face of disruption.
According to her, the role of government is fundamental in creating a business-friendly environment through enabling policies, improved access to finance, and infrastructure development. She also underscored the significance of strategic communication and business media in equipping entrepreneurs with market intelligence and policy insights.
“SME finance and development banking remain pillars of support, offering affordable capital, risk mitigation tools, and advisory services that strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of small businesses,” she added.
Reaffirming Ogun State’s position as a pro-SME government, Arobieke noted that the administration continues to implement initiatives focused on access to capital, digital tools, and enterprise development, all aligned with the Governor’s vision of inclusive prosperity.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, Dr. Femi Egbesola, President of the Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria, emphasised that small businesses make up the largest portion of enterprises in the country. He stressed the importance of government attention on nano businesses, noting that nano entrepreneurs must be properly identified and supported.
He also advocated for the inclusion of insurance as a tool for sustaining such businesses. Dr. Egbesola appreciated the support from both the government and private sector organisations in advancing the growth of small enterprises.
