By Diana Omueza

The UN Development Programme (UNDP) has said that the new 120KVA Mini-Grid at the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Idu Centre, would enhance the productivity of Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria.

Ms Elsie Attafuah, Resident Representative in Nigeria of the United Nations Development Programme, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Abuja.

NAN reports that the UNDP in collaboration with Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), recently installed a 120KVA solar-powered mini-grid and state-of-the-art makerspace to enhance energy access for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Nigeria.

Attafuah said that the mini-grid and the makerspace facility were initiatives aimed to provide uninterrupted, sustainable, and affordable power, addressing one of the most critical challenges faced by entrepreneurs and small businesses in the country.

“This cutting-edge facility will equip MSMEs particularly those in the fashion, leather, circular economy, and creative industries with modern digital tools, machinery, shared production spaces, and business support services.

“It would enable them to scale operations, improve quality, and compete in local and global markets.

“The twin initiatives  – sustainable energy access and advanced skills development infrastructure – reflect UNDP’s commitment to fostering a thriving MSME ecosystem, promoting economic resilience, and driving inclusive industrialisation in Nigeria,” she said.

The UNDP representative said that facilities provided offered a new chapter for MSMEs especially those in Abuja to thrive in today’s competitive economy.

According to her, the initiative not only supports local innovation but also links Nigerian businesses to regional and continental trade opportunities.

She said that the refurbishment of the facility was part of UNDP’s broader commitment to strengthening the MSMEs ecosystem in the country and to drive trade within Nigeria and Africa at large.

Attafuah said that by supporting MSMEs and promoting sustainable practices, UNDP and SMEDAN were contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and its integration into regional and global value chains.

She noted that the initiative aligned with UNDP’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and empowering communities.

“Recent interventions at SMEDAN, Idu centre, such as the solarisation of the garment-making section with a 120 KVA Hybrid Mini-grid inverter system with 240 KWH Lithium Battery have significantly improved energy reliability, enabling the fashion hub to thrive.

“Access to renewable energy will enhance productivity while reducing costs, making it easier for fashion entrepreneurs to meet the rising demand for Nigerian-made products, both locally and across African markets under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA),” she said.

In a separate interview, Mr Charles Odii, Director General of SMEDAN, commended the collaboration of the UNDP in provision of the mini-grid and the state of the art markerspace power supply facility.

He said that the facilities marked a critical milestone in SMEDAN’s vision to transform all its centres into one-stop shops for MSMEs in the country.

“These centers will provide entrepreneurs with seamless access to critical resources, including innovative facilities, regulatory support, and capacity-building opportunities.

“Our commitment remains unwavering in creating an enabling environment for MSMEs to thrive, and we will continue to pursue strategic partnerships, like this collaboration with UNDP, to ensure this vision becomes a reality,” he said.

Odii said that the facility had further proven the UNDP’s commitment to supporting innovative solutions and fostering sustainable development, collaborative workspaces equipped with advanced technology and facilities for the benefits of MSMES.

He urged MSMEs within and around Abuja to optimise the facilities provided and available at the SMEDAN Idu center to boost productivity and grow the nation’s economy.

According to him, we expect MSMEs to fully utilise these facilities, it will help them in prototype design and manufacture products, thereby boosting their productivity and competitiveness.

Odii added that the makerspace would serve as a hub where entrepreneurs could access support from SMEDAN and other regulatory agencies, providing a solid foundation for MSMEs to scale their businesses and increase their competitiveness. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bayo Sekoni