MSME Development: Ogun Enterprise Development Agency Commences Operations

By Popoola Jamiu, Abeokuta

The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector in Ogun State has received a major boost with the commencement of operations of the Ogun State Enterprise Development Agency.

According to the agency’s pioneer Director-General, Segun Dada, OGSEDA was established to support entrepreneurs in starting, growing and sustaining their businesses. He disclosed that the agency had already commenced operations following his assumption of office ahead of its official launch later this year.

Speaking while receiving the new Director-General in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Kehinde Akintomide, described OGSEDA as a strategic initiative of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration aimed at strengthening small businesses across the state.

Akintomide noted that the state government remained committed to creating an enabling environment for both large-scale industries and MSMEs, recognising the latter as critical drivers of economic growth.

“His Excellency is not only focused on large-scale industries but also fully appreciates the vital role of MSMEs in economic development. As seen in countries like China, where cottage industries form the backbone of economic progress, Ogun State is giving equal attention to small businesses,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary also commended the German Agency for International Cooperation, through its Sustainable Economic Development for Decent Employment in Nigeria (SEDIN) programme, for its collaboration in the establishment and smooth take-off of the agency.

He assured the Director-General of the ministry’s full support, including the provision of the necessary human and material resources required for effective operations.

Responding, Dada described his appointment as an opportunity to make a lasting impact, stressing that the success of small businesses remains a key indicator of economic development.

He also commended Akintomide’s appointment as Permanent Secretary of the ministry, noting that his leadership had laid a solid foundation for the agency’s successful take-off and future operations.