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The Federal Government has teamed up with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) to boost the global competitiveness of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
The Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, announced this during a Strategic Capacity-building Programme tailored for Nigerian SMEs, which was organized in partnership with WIPO on Friday in Abuja.
Director of the Trademarks Registry, Adamu Yauri, represented the minister at the event.
Oduwole clarified that the objective of the programme is to use intellectual property and branding as mechanisms to improve the competitiveness of SMEs.
7She reaffirmed the ministry's dedication to empowering SMEs through strategies focused on intellectual property and branding. The initiative has selected and trained about 60 SMEs, equipping them with vital skills for business growth.
These SMEs are expected to serve as examples for others, and the success of this programme will facilitate the expansion of future projects with WIPO.
The minister urged all relevant agencies to allocate funds and resources to support the trained SMEs. She also stressed the importance of mentorship and continuous education in business development, highlighting the Abuja Enterprise Agency (AEA)’s commitment to providing robust training, mentorship, and empowerment for SMEs.
Oduwole further noted the economic potential of the creative sector and acknowledged its increasing significance. She emphasized the ministry's commitment to fostering innovation, utilizing technology, and strengthening collaborations to advance the SME sector.
Oduwole extended her gratitude to WIPO for its steadfast support in ensuring the programme's success.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Amb. Nura Rimi, also expressed gratitude towards WIPO's leadership in this initiative.
He encouraged participants to fully leverage the knowledge and skills gained during the programme.
Rimi was represented by Director of Federal Produce Service and Inspection, Dafang Sule.
Director of WIPO’s Nigeria Office,Oluwatobiloba Moody, praised the dedication of the participants and urged them to consider trademarks as not merely marketing tools but valuable commercial assets.
He asserted that SMEs should appreciate the monetary value of trademarks and their potential for commercial exploitation.
In his comments, Acting Managing Director of AEA,Chudi Ezingwe, announced the creation of the Abuja Business School of Entrepreneurship, aimed at delivering internationally recognized training programs.
He also revealed plans to launch the Abuja Talent Academy, dedicated to supporting creatives and artists.
