The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has urged Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to expand Nigeria’s footprint in global trade, stressing that the non-oil export sector is critical to strengthening the nation’s economy.
At a one-day workshop on “Online/Digital Marketing for Nigerian SMEs” held at Man House, Ikeja, Lagos, the workshop, themed “Leveraging Online/Digital Marketplaces to Increase Nigeria’s Share in the Global Market,” attracted over 87 participants, including key players like Jumia Nigeria, UPS, DHL, and the Nigeria Postal Service (NIPOST).
The organisers explained that the essence of the event was to expose Nigerian SMEs to practical strategies for using digital tools and platforms to sell their non-oil products and services across the world.
In his welcome address, Assistant Director, Services Export, Mr. Sunday Ayodele, emphasised the critical role of SMEs in economic development.
“SMEs form the backbone of Nigeria’s economy. Their contributions cannot be overlooked if we must achieve the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration. This workshop is a timely initiative to boost Nigeria’s global trade share, especially as we shift focus from oil to the non-oil sector,” he said.
In her keynote address, the Executive Director/CEO of the NEPC, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, represented by Mrs. Bolanle Emmanuel, Acting Regional Coordinator, South West, urged participants to seize the opportunity to learn and leverage digital trading platforms.
“Markets are no longer defined by geography but by connectivity. With just your smartphone or laptop, you can reach customers anywhere—Africa, Asia, Europe, or the Americas,” she noted.
She stressed NEPC’s commitment to building pathways for Nigerian exporters to compete globally. “Get informed, get inspired, and take action. Let’s work together to increase Nigeria’s share in the global marketplace,” she added.
Jumia Nigeria’s representative, Mr. Nichols Obasigie, advised SMEs to focus on product presentation. “Use high-quality images, clear product descriptions, competitive pricing, and standout packaging,” he said, promising free product registration for attendees and exclusive discounts.
