Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has been honoured with the prestigious award of 2025 Best Governor in Enterprise and Investment Promotion at the 5th SME Business Awards.
The recognition, according to a statement on Tuesday, “celebrates Gov Abiodun’s administration’s steadfast commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, supporting small businesses, and driving inclusive economic growth across the state”.
The awards ceremony, hosted by the Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria and held in Lagos, also saw the Ogun State Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency named Most Vibrant State Investment Promotion Agency.
In addition, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Investment and Deputy Director General of OgunInvest, Ms. Sola Arobieke, was recognised as SME Hero in Public Service.
Arobieke was equally applauded for her strategic leadership in empowering small businesses and championing innovation within the public sector.
Speaking during a panel discussion at the event, themed “Sustainable Business Practices: The New Competitive Advantage for SMEs,” Arobieke underscored the critical role of strategic planning, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration in building resilient and sustainable SMEs in today’s fast-evolving economic landscape.
Moderating a session titled “Building Resilient and Sustainable SMEs: Strategies for Long-Term Growth and Global Competitiveness,” Arobieke described sustainable business practices as the new edge for forward-looking SMEs, urging entrepreneurs to embrace adaptability, digital tools, and long-term thinking.
“From microinsurance and risk management—which shield businesses from unforeseen shocks—to the vital roles of funding, technology, and capacity building, every element contributes significantly to shaping a resilient SME ecosystem,” she noted.
She equally highlighted the transformative impact of digital infrastructure and e-commerce, stressing that these tools enable SMEs to scale efficiently, access broader markets, and remain agile in times of disruption.
According to her, governments play a fundamental role in creating a business-friendly environment through enabling policies, improved access to finance, and critical infrastructure development.
She also emphasized the importance of strategic communication and business media in equipping entrepreneurs with the market intelligence and policy insights needed to thrive.
“SME finance and development banking remain pillars of support, offering affordable capital, risk mitigation tools, and advisory services that enhance the resilience and competitiveness of small businesses,” she added.
Reaffirming Ogun State’s commitment to SMEs, Arobieke noted that the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration continues to roll out initiatives that improve access to funding, promote digital adoption, and strengthen enterprise development, all in alignment with the Governor’s vision for inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, Dr. Femi Egbesola, President of ASBON, emphasized that small businesses constitute the majority of enterprises in Nigeria. He called for greater governmental focus on nano enterprises, stressing the need for targeted identification, recognition, and support of these ultra-small businesses.
He further advocated for the adoption of microinsurance as a critical tool for sustaining nano and small enterprises, particularly in the face of economic uncertainties. Dr. Egbesola commended both public and private sector stakeholders for their continued support of Nigeria’s small business community.
