SMEDAN boss reaffirms support for SMEs during Ogun visit

The Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Charles Odii, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

Odii made this known during a working visit to Falcon Chemicals Ltd in Ogun State, where he conducted a fact-finding tour of the facility and engaged with the company’s management.

He expressed satisfaction with the operations of the 40-year-old firm and assured that the agency would support its growth and expansion plans.

According to him, the current administration under President Bola Tinubu is investing in infrastructure such as road networks and port development to ease trade and boost industrial productivity.

The SMEDAN chief also revealed that over ₦200 billion has been released in recent years to support nano, small, and medium enterprises across the country, largely in the form of grants.

He, however, identified low public trust as a major challenge, noting that many business owners remain sceptical about accessing government funding.

“Funds are available, but many entrepreneurs do not apply. Even beneficiaries are often reluctant to share their experiences, which fuels doubt,” he said.

Odii stressed that proper registration with SMEDAN is the first step for businesses seeking access to its programmes, adding that the agency remains committed to providing guidance, funding opportunities, and support services.

On security concerns, he said the agency has helped connect business owners with security agencies to ensure safer operating environments.

In his response, the Managing Director of Falcon Chemicals Ltd, Babatunde Adefarati, described the visit as encouraging, noting that the company is currently operating below its full capacity.

He disclosed that the firm aims to meet local demand and expand into export markets, while working to reduce its reliance on imported raw materials.