About 470 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria will benefit from the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Program (GEF-SGP), implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the International Trade Facilitators Association (ITFA). This support comes under the Support to Potential and Existing Nature-Positive MSMEs (SPENM) programme, which targets environmentally and socially conscious entrepreneurs building sustainable businesses. The initiative was announced at the Northwest Geo-Political Zone workshop in Kano and is part of a nationwide rollout across all 36 states. The programme offers resources, tools, and mentorship to help MSMEs thrive beyond the duration of their grant funding.
Collins Ezeiruaku, Trade Ambassador of ITFA, highlighted the programme’s mission to transform NGOs and small businesses into self-sustaining social enterprises. He stressed the importance of ensuring these enterprises continue generating positive impact after grants end. The initiative is based on three pillars: People, Planet, and Profit, focusing on sustainable profitability, market access, and international certification to boost competitiveness.
One of the programme’s key objectives is to connect MSMEs with both local and global markets while supporting them to obtain required certifications. Many Nigerian businesses struggle with global market access due to a lack of standardization and compliance. SPENM addresses this by working closely with Federal and State Governments under the “One State, One Product” initiative, where participants are nominated by export promotion committees.
Ezeiruaku explained that the programme ensures every participant leaves with a validated business model, enhanced visibility, and access to markets. Through workshops in all six geo-political zones, participants are trained on integrating ethical practices, transforming grants into sustainable enterprises, and competing in international markets using the ITFA directory.
Rose Agbo, Programme Support to the National Coordinator of UNDP GEF-SGP, emphasized that the programme aims to empower MSMEs not only for compliance but also for long-term environmental and economic resilience. By aligning profitability with ethical and green practices, enterprises can build consumer trust and contribute to Nigeria’s broader green economy agenda.
With mentorship, customized business plans, and practical implementation strategies, this initiative positions Nigeria’s MSMEs to become globally competitive and environmentally responsible, supporting sustainable development, climate action, and inclusive economic growth.
