Keystone Bank Addresses Challenges Facing SMEs In Kaduna, Others

A nationwide SME Business Clinic, held in celebration of the United Nations’ World Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Day 2025, has provided vital support to entrepreneurs in 10 major Nigerian cities throughout June.

Themed “Empowering SMEs for Growth and Sustainability,” the initiative focused on equipping small and medium-sized enterprises with the skills and resources needed to thrive in a dynamic business environment.

The programme reached entrepreneurs in Kaduna, Aba (Abia State), Lagos, Port Harcourt, Asaba (Delta), Onitsha (Anambra), Kano, Maiduguri, Abuja, and Ibadan (Oyo). Participants took part in workshops, networking sessions, and discussions focused on business management skills, operational strategies, and sustainable growth.

According to the bank, the clinics were intended to provide a platform for business owners to share experiences, learn practical tools, and gain insights into navigating challenges specific to Nigerian SMEs. Sessions included expert-led presentations and interactive Q&A forums, with topics ranging from accessing financing to adapting to changing market conditions.

Attendees from various cities noted the practical nature of the sessions and welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with professionals and peers. Several participants expressed appreciation for the focus on real-world business challenges and the actionable advice provided during the clinics.

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Keystone Bank stated that it planned to continue supporting Nigerian entrepreneurs through similar initiatives and partnerships that emphasise innovation, financial literacy, and business expansion.

Commenting on the initiative, group head, Retail and Digital Banking, Keystone Bank, Olayemi Sule, said: “At Keystone Bank, we understand the vital role SMEs play in national development.

“The initiative was designed to equip SMEs with essential business management skills, provide a collaborative platform for entrepreneurs to connect and learn from one another, and deepen understanding of the key drivers of business growth and sustainability,” the bank said.

“The SME Business Clinic was designed to equip business owners with practical tools and knowledge to scale their ventures, build resilience, and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth. This initiative underscores our ongoing dedication to fostering innovation, financial literacy, and sustainable business practices,” she added.

During the training, each session featured hands-on workshops, expert-led discussions, and interactive Q&A forums addressing the real-world challenges Nigerian entrepreneurs face today. Participants also received actionable strategies to strengthen operations, access financing, and navigate an evolving business landscape.

Participants across the various cities praised Keystone Bank for the thoughtful initiative, expressing gratitude that a financial institution is intentionally investing in their growth. Many said they felt seen, heard, and encouraged by the practical nature of the sessions, adding that it was refreshing to see a bank go beyond transactions to truly support the engine room of the economy—SMEs.