The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has taken it upon itself to equip various Nano, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (NMSMEs) in Lagos State with valuable packaging and branding skills.
Speaking recently in Lagos, SMEDAN’s Chief Executive Officer/Director General, Mr Charles Odii, revealed that the ongoing training will help small and medium businesses to take full advantage of the opportunities the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has to offer.
Represented by the Deputy Director, Special Duties, SMEDAN, Mr Tunde Oloyede, Charles said that because packaging and branding is a key skill needed to guarantee quality and export-ready goods, business owners being fully equipped with how it works is not a bad idea.
According to him, the training is in line with SMEDAN’s commitment to enhance the capacity of Nigerian businesses to positively exploit AfCFTA’s 1.3 billion consumers.
“We are not just training for local excellence but we are preparing Nigerian NMSMEs to become continental brands.
With the right packaging and branding strategies, our products can compete favourably across African markets and beyond,” he said.
Charles revealed that the training also guarantees that Nigerian products will become more competitive in the market because it covers crucial modules on modern packaging techniques, brand identity development, regulatory compliance, and market positioning.
Speaking on the participants thus far, he disclosed that various attendees have ranged from startups, business support organisations, to entrepreneurs and cooperatives.
“The initiative aims to address longstanding challenges faced by Nigerian products in regional markets, such as poor presentation, weak brand visibility, and non-compliance with international trade standards.
Key topics covered included designing packaging that complies with AfCFTA export requirements, developing culturally resonant yet globally appealing brand identities, leveraging e-commerce platforms, and exploring cost-effective, sustainable packaging solutions,” he added.
