FG Partners WIPO to Boost SMEs’ Global Competitiveness
The Federal Government has partnered with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) to enhance the global competitiveness of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Dr Jumoke Oduwole, the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, made this announcement during a Strategic Capacity-building Programme for Nigerian SMEs, organised in collaboration with WIPO, on Friday in Abuja.
The minister was represented by Mr Adamu Yauri, Director of the Trademarks Registry. Oduwole explained that the programme aimed to leverage intellectual property and branding as tools to enhance the competitiveness of SMEs.
She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to empowering SMEs through intellectual property and branding strategies. She revealed that the initiative had selected and trained about 60 SMEs, equipping them with essential skills to foster business growth.
These SMEs, she noted, would serve as a reference for others, and the success of the programme would support efforts to expand future collaborations with WIPO. Oduwole called on all relevant agencies to provide funding and resources to support the trained SMEs.
She also highlighted the importance of mentorship and continuous learning in enterprise development, citing the Abuja Enterprise Agency (AEA)’s dedication to ensuring strong training, mentorship, and empowerment for SMEs. The minister further emphasised the economic potential of the creative sector and recognised its growing importance.
She expressed the ministry’s commitment to fostering innovation, leveraging technology, and strengthening partnerships to drive the SME sector forward. Oduwole thanked WIPO for its unwavering support in ensuring the programme’s success.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Amb. Nura Rimi, also expressed appreciation for WIPO’s leadership in the initiative. He urged participants to make the most of the knowledge and skills they acquired during the programme. Rimi was represented by Mr Dafang Sule, Director of Federal Produce Service and Inspection.
Mr Oluwatobiloba Moody, Director of WIPO’s Nigeria Office, commended the commitment of the participants and encouraged them to view trademarks not just as marketing tools but as valuable commercial assets. He added that SMEs should recognise the monetary value of trademarks and their potential for commercialisation.
In his remarks, Mr Chudi Ezingwe, Acting Managing Director of AEA, announced the establishment of the Abuja Business School of Entrepreneurship, aimed at providing globally recognised training programmes. He also disclosed plans to launch the Abuja Talent Academy, which will support creatives and artists. #FG Partners WIPO to Boost SMEs’ Global Competitiveness#
