Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria has urged small and medium-sized enterprises to strengthen their export capabilities and improve their readiness for cross-border trade as businesses seek growth opportunities beyond the domestic market.
The call was made during the bank’s International SME Day 2026 client engagement session in Lagos, themed “Scaling Beyond Borders in a Changing Global Market.” The event brought together regulators, industry experts, business leaders, and SME customers to discuss export development, trade facilitation, and cross-border business opportunities.
Discussions focused on the changing macroeconomic environment, collaboration across the trade ecosystem, and the role of financial institutions in supporting Nigerian businesses seeking access to international markets.
Speaking at the event, the acting Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited, Ayodeji Adelagun, said small and medium-sized enterprises remain a key driver of Nigeria’s economy.
He noted that SMEs account for about 96 per cent of businesses in the country, contribute nearly half of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product, and employ a significant share of the workforce.
“The rapidly evolving global business landscape presents a defining opportunity for Nigerian SMEs to expand beyond local markets and compete with greater confidence across Africa and the world. Digital transformation, regional integration and shifting consumer preferences are opening new pathways for growth.
“However, to fully capture these opportunities, businesses must also navigate realities such as currency volatility, evolving trade policies, supply chain disruptions, infrastructure constraints, technology adoption gaps, and access to affordable finance. Building resilience, strengthening adaptability, and investing in the right capabilities will be critical to sustainable success,” Adelagun said.