The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has announced plans for the 2025 edition of its flagship MSMEs Fair, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the micro, small, and medium enterprises sector. Scheduled to hold on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at NECA House in Alausa, Lagos, the event is designed to equip small business owners with the tools, knowledge, and strategic connections necessary for long-term growth and sustainability.
Speaking ahead of the event, NECA’s leadership described small businesses as the foundation of Nigeria’s economy. According to the association, the fair will offer practical support to help entrepreneurs navigate the increasingly complex challenges of today’s business landscape, ensuring they remain resilient and competitive.
This year’s fair will feature a keynote session where business leaders are expected to share innovative strategies for ensuring the sustainability and expansion of MSMEs. In addition to keynote insights, a major feature of the event will be interactive discussions with regulatory agencies. Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to engage directly with key regulators on critical matters including licensing, compliance requirements, taxation issues, and business registration processes. This engagement is aimed at simplifying bureaucratic hurdles and promoting a more conducive environment for enterprise growth.
Under the theme “Galvanizing MSMEs for Economic Growth and Stability,” the 2025 fair will bring together a wide range of stakeholders. Financiers, technology experts, regulatory authorities, and seasoned business leaders will be on hand to offer participants actionable guidance, business development advice, and real-time support that reflects the realities of the current economic environment.
Entrepreneurs operating across diverse sectors will also be able to showcase their products and services, creating valuable opportunities to connect with potential investors, forge strategic partnerships, and access new markets. The event promises to be a critical platform for learning about digital transformation trends, securing financial support, and developing practical strategies for scaling businesses in a sustainable manner.
NECA emphasized that the MSMEs Fair reflects its broader mission of promoting enterprise development and driving economic resilience. The association noted that building a vibrant MSME sector is crucial not just for Nigeria’s economic stability but also for the broader African market, as small businesses remain key drivers of innovation, job creation, and inclusive growth across the continent.
