The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has called on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to expand the country’s presence in global trade, emphasizing the importance of the non-oil export sector in strengthening Nigeria’s economy.
At a recent workshop on “Online/Digital Marketing for Nigerian SMEs” in Lagos, the NEPC highlighted the potential of digital tools and platforms in boosting Nigeria’s share in the global market. The workshop, attended by over 87 participants, including major players like Jumia Nigeria, UPS, DHL, and NIPOST, aimed to equip SMEs with practical strategies for selling non-oil products and services worldwide.
Assistant Director of Services Export at NEPC, Mr. Sunday Ayodele, stressed the critical role of SMEs in Nigeria’s economic development, noting that their contributions are essential to achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.
The Executive Director/CEO of NEPC, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, urged participants to seize the opportunity to learn and leverage digital trading platforms, emphasizing that 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 said.
Jumia Nigeria’s representative, Mr. Nichols Obasigie, advised SMEs to focus on product presentation, recommending high-quality images, clear product descriptions, competitive pricing, and standout packaging. He also promised free product registration for attendees and exclusive discounts.
The NEPC reaffirmed its commitment to building pathways for Nigerian exporters to compete globally, encouraging SMEs to “get informed, get inspired, and take action” to increase Nigeria’s share in the global marketplace.
