As part of ongoing efforts to boost Nigeria’s non-oil exports and empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to compete globally, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has hosted a one-day workshop in Lagos focused on online and digital marketing.
Held at Man House in Ikeja, the event drew over 87 participants and key stakeholders, including representatives from Jumia Nigeria, UPS, DHL, and the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST). With the theme “Leveraging Online/Digital Marketplaces to Increase Nigeria’s Share in the Global Market,” the session was designed to provide Nigerian SMEs with hands-on strategies for navigating digital platforms and expanding their reach beyond local markets.
In his welcome address, the Assistant Director of Services Export, Mr. Sunday Ayodele, emphasized the central role of SMEs in national economic development. He noted that empowering these businesses with digital tools was essential to achieving the goals of the current administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The keynote address was delivered by NEPC Executive Director/CEO, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, represented by Mrs. Bolanle Emmanuel, Acting Regional Coordinator for the South West. She underscored the importance of embracing digital trade, saying connectivity not geography—now defines markets.
“With just a smartphone or laptop, SMEs can reach customers in Africa, Europe, Asia, or the Americas. The NEPC is committed to helping Nigerian exporters unlock these global opportunities,” she said, encouraging participants to act on the knowledge gained.
The session featured insights from major logistics and e-commerce players. Jumia Nigeria’s representative, Mr. Nichols Obasigie, urged SMEs to prioritize quality product presentation—clear photos, compelling descriptions, competitive pricing, and unique packaging. He also announced free product registration and exclusive discounts for attendees.
UPS Nigeria’s Country Manager, Mr. Morolayo Igeleke, shared marketing fundamentals using the “4 Ps”—Product, Price, Promotion, and Place. He advised participants to target promotions wisely and use both traditional and digital publicity channels. A 25% logistics discount was offered to all participants who mention the workshop when booking.
DHL Nigeria’s Country Manager, Mr. Charles Eke, spoke on meeting delivery expectations, noting that fast and reliable service is just as important as the sale itself. He promoted DHL’s global tracking system and announced a 35% discount for participants who sign up.
NIPOST’s Mrs. Beneditta Usoro highlighted improved reliability and e-commerce tools under the agency’s EMS platform. She assured participants of reduced tariffs and better delivery timelines, citing recent reforms aimed at strengthening NIPOST’s logistics capabilities.
Also speaking, NEPC’s Mr. Paul Ajayi stressed the importance of international packaging standards, noting that quality packaging preserves goods, builds customer trust, and opens access to more markets.
The interactive session saw questions on logistics, customer service, and delivery raised by attendees. Clarifications included nationwide availability of UPS discounts, product drop-off procedures at Jumia’s Ibadan office, and NIPOST’s reformed delivery systems. In response to concerns about past delivery delays, NIPOST assured participants of a new level of service reliability.
The event ended with a vote of thanks from Madam Linda, who commended the NEPC and its partners for championing the digital export growth of Nigerian SMEs.
With expert insights, real-time incentives, and practical guidance, the NEPC workshop marks a significant move in Nigeria’s journey toward a digitally driven export economy. As the nation shifts focus from oil to value-added products and services, initiatives like this are helping SMEs seize opportunities in the global marketplace.
