The Federal Government plans to disburse over N1 billion to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) under the 2026 National MSME Awards. This award package is aimed at supporting business growth and financial stability for the recipients. According to Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, Senior Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, the awards portal will open on April 7 and close on May 7. MSMEs nationwide are urged to submit applications during this period.
The 2026 edition of the awards, tagged 'Renewed Hope for MSMEs,' will focus on providing financial grants to support business growth. Temitola Adekunle-Johnson stated that the government, in collaboration with partners, will ensure wider distribution of financial rewards across categories. Winners will also benefit from mentorship programmes coordinated by relevant government agencies.
The awards will recognise innovation, creativity, employment generation, and use of technology. Temitola Adekunle-Johnson acknowledged challenges with poor-quality applications in previous editions and assured Nigerians that the process will remain transparent and merit-based. The grand finale will hold on June 27 to commemorate the United Nations World MSME Day.
