The United Nations Development Programme has said that the new 120KVA Mini-Grid at the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Idu Centre, would enhance the productivity of small and medium enterprises in Nigeria.

Elsie Attafuah, a resident representative of the UNDP in Nigeria, said this in an interview on Friday in Abuja.

In collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, the UNDP recently installed a 120KVA solar-powered mini-grid and state-of-the-art maker space to enhance energy access for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Nigeria.

Ms Attafuah said that the mini-grid and the maker space facility were initiatives aimed at providing uninterrupted, sustainable, and affordable power, addressing one of the most critical challenges faced by entrepreneurs and small businesses in the country.

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

According to her, the initiative supports local innovation and links Nigerian businesses to regional and continental trade opportunities.

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

Ms 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.

In a separate interview, Charles Odii, director-general of SMEDAN, commended the UNDP’s collaboration in providing the mini-grid and the state-of-the-art markerspace power supply facility.

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

Mr Odii said the facility had further proven the UNDP’s commitment to supporting innovative solutions and fostering sustainable development, as well as collaborative workspaces equipped with advanced technology and facilities for the benefit of MSMEs.

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

According to him, we expect MSMEs to utilise these facilities fully, as they will help them in prototype design and product manufacturing, thereby boosting their productivity and competitiveness.

Mr 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)