The Federal Government plans to allocate over N1 billion to support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the 2026 National MSME Awards. The awards aim to provide financial grants to MSMEs, shifting focus from previous rewards such as cars, houses, and shops.
Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, the Senior Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, disclosed the plans at a media briefing in Abuja. The awards portal will open on April 7 and close on May 7, allowing MSMEs nationwide to submit applications.
Adekunle-Johnson stated that the 2026 edition, tagged "Renewed Hope for MSMEs," will prioritize financial grants to support business growth. The initiative will provide funding tailored to the immediate business needs of MSMEs, with the aim of promoting innovation, creativity, employment generation, and technology use.
The awards will recognize outstanding MSMEs in various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, textiles, creativity, innovation, and beauty and wellness. A representative of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Mrs Sarah Ajayi, emphasized the importance of compliance and proper documentation in the selection process.
The grand finale of the awards will hold on June 27 to commemorate the United Nations World MSME Day.
