The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) is committed to fostering a thriving micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) sector that can propel the nation’s economic growth.
Its upcoming 6th Annual Lecture, themed “Positioning Nigerian MSMEs for Growth in a Dynamic Policy Environment,” promises to be a transformative event designed to inspire and equip entrepreneurs with the insights and strategies necessary for success.
Scheduled for 25 September in Abuja, this lecture will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, policy advocacy and networking, all aimed at unlocking the immense potential of local and emerging startups.
Flora Mutahi’s Visionary Leadership
Flora Mutahi, a trailblazing entrepreneur and visionary leader, will deliver the keynote address at this year’s event. With over 27 years of experience as a C-suite executive, Flora’s journey from founding Kenya’s largest natural-flavored tea company to leading real estate ventures exemplifies resilience and innovation.
Her involvement on global boards such as the UN Global Compact and P4G highlights her commitment to sustainable growth and impact. Flora’s insights will undoubtedly inspire Nigerian entrepreneurs to embrace innovative business models and leverage policy environments to their advantage.
Her advocacy for entrepreneurship, sustainable development, and resilient leadership will provide attendees with practical strategies for navigating a dynamic policy landscape.
Prince Arthur Uche’s Manufacturing Revolution
Prince Arthur Uche’s remarkable journey from apprentice to CEO embodies grit vision and transformative entrepreneurship. As founder and CEO of Beyond Clothing Limited, Nigeria’s largest multi-floor garment factory, he has redefined “Made in Nigeria” on the global stage.
His participation in the fireside chat will offer valuable lessons on scaling manufacturing enterprises, fostering local industries and creating jobs through innovative approaches.
Prince Arthur’s story reinforces the importance of local manufacturing as a driver for economic diversification and export growth, inspiring startups to view global markets as attainable goals.
Affiong Williams’ Success Story
Affiong Williams, founder and CEO of ReelFruit, exemplifies how innovation in agribusiness can unlock new opportunities across Africa. Since 2012, she has built ReelFruit into a leading fruit processing and packaging company supplying both local and international markets, including Amazon and major airlines.
Her recognition by Forbes 30 Under 30 underscores her impact as a pioneer in agribusiness and job creation. During the event, Affiong will share her insights on scaling agribusinesses, developing global value chains, and harnessing African entrepreneurs’ potential to meet international demands.
Her success story will motivate entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in agribusiness and value addition.
Aliyu Dahiru Muhammad on Sustainable Financing
Adding depth to the event’s discourse, Prof. Aliyu Dahiru Muhammad, a renowned economist specializing in Islamic Economics and Finance, will participate as a post-keynote panelist.
His expertise in development finance, poverty reduction and sustainable financing will provide critical perspectives on leveraging financial instruments and policy frameworks to support MSMEs.
His insights will be especially valuable for entrepreneurs seeking innovative financing options and policymakers aiming to create enabling environments for growth.
A Platform for Growth and Transformation
The 6th DBN Annual Lecture promises to be an invaluable event for Nigerian entrepreneurs seeking to unlock their potential in an evolving policy environment.
With distinguished speakers offering diverse perspectives, from innovative manufacturing to agribusiness and sustainable finance, the event will provide practical knowledge, inspiration and strategic insights.
Attendees will leave better equipped to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification and sustainable development.
By fostering dialogue and collaboration among entrepreneurs, policymakers and industry leaders, the DBN continues to demonstrate its commitment to making Nigeria’s MSME sector a vital engine of growth and resilience.
