Nigeria: 'Digital Payments Critical to Growth of Nigeria's SMEs'

eTranzact International Plc has called for increased adoption of digital payment solutions among micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), saying access to technology is critical to improving business efficiency, financial inclusion and growth.

The company also said it was deepening its partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to expand digital access and financial literacy among small businesses across the country.

In a statement, the Divisional Head, Merchant Services, eTranzact, Mrs. Abimbola Reis, stated this on Wednesday at the SMEDAN/eTranzact Town Hall Engagement in Lagos recently, themed, "Financial Literacy and Inclusion for MSMEs Leveraging on Fintech Innovation."

Reis described MSMEs as the backbone of Nigeria's economy, noting that the sector comprises almost 40 million businesses and contributes significantly to economic growth and job creation.

However, she said many businesses continue to face challenges including limited access to finance, inefficient payment systems, weak financial reporting, cash-flow constraints and inadequate access to digital platforms.

She added that trust concerns also affect businesses' ability to access finance, while heavy reliance on cash increases exposure to theft and makes payment reconciliation more difficult.

Representing the Director-General of SMEDAN, Prof. Yinka Fisher said the town hall was aimed at generating practical ideas and solutions that would support the growth and expansion of MSMEs.

"The essence of this engagement is to share ideas and concepts that will help MSMEs thrive and expand. Our partnership with eTranzact is about expanding the frontiers of MSMEs and ensuring they continue to grow," he said.

Also speaking, representative of the Director-General of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dr. Praise Adedigba said businesses could no longer depend solely on hard work to remain competitive.

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