Glovo, a leading tech platform in Europe, Africa, and Central Asia, has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria through the new edition of Glovo Academy held in Abuja. The initiative provides training and digital tools to help local businesses optimize operations, boost their brand, and increase online sales.
Reni Onafeko, Head of Growth at Glovo Nigeria, emphasized the company’s commitment to empowering SMEs on its platform, offering access to opportunities such as advisory and finance. She highlighted that Glovo has delivered over N11 billion in value to partners since its launch in Abuja in 2022, with a 30% year-on-year increase in orders.
Onafeko stressed the importance of digital literacy for SMEs to expand, formalize operations, and scale sustainably. During a panel session, Ifeoma Williams, Special Adviser to the Minister of State for Industry, emphasized the significance of MSMEs to the economy, citing data from the National Bureau of Statistics that shows 40% of Nigeria’s GDP is derived from small businesses.
However, Williams noted that many SMEs face challenges accessing loan facilities due to poor structure and inadequate business plans. She assured that the federal government is working to provide supportive policies for businesses to thrive.
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Tijani Mustapha, Founder of Ahmad’s Sharwarma, highlighted the need for SMEs to invest in technology to stay competitive and grow their businesses. “Any business we do today must embrace technology,” he said. “Through technology, we can gather customer feedback, keep the business in check, and improve.”
Kayode Meyanbe, Head of ICT at SMEDAN, announced that the federal government is partnering with the Corporate Affairs Commission to provide free registration for 250,000 businesses. He urged SMEs to formalize their operations and access available opportunities.
Kolawole Adeniyi, Head of Commercial at Glovo Nigeria, disclosed that the platform has invested 206 million euros in the African continent, impacting businesses with 90% belonging to the SMEs category. The Glovo Academy event included presentations and sessions on operational excellence, marketing, and capacity-building training.
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