LCCI, NASD Push SMEs to Explore Capital Market Funding for Business Growth
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria have been urged to take advantage of opportunities available in the capital market as a sustainable source of funding for growth, expansion, and long-term business sustainability.
The call was made during a stakeholder engagement organized by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) in collaboration with NASD Plc, where business leaders, investors, and market operators discussed strategies for improving access to finance for Nigerian enterprises.
Participants emphasized that many SMEs continue to face significant challenges in securing affordable financing from conventional lending institutions, making alternative funding channels increasingly important for business survival and growth.
Industry experts noted that the capital market offers unique opportunities for businesses seeking long-term funding without the high borrowing costs often associated with commercial loans. They explained that raising capital through equity and other market instruments can provide enterprises with the financial flexibility required to scale operations and improve competitiveness.
The stakeholders also highlighted the need for increased awareness among entrepreneurs about the benefits of accessing the capital market. According to them, many businesses remain unaware of available opportunities that could help unlock investment and drive sustainable development.
Business leaders stressed that strengthening SME participation in the capital market would not only support enterprise growth but also contribute significantly to job creation, innovation, wealth generation, and national economic development.
The engagement further underscored the critical role of SMEs as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, accounting for a substantial portion of employment and economic activities across various sectors.
Experts urged policymakers, regulators, and market operators to continue creating an enabling environment that simplifies access to capital while enhancing investor confidence and market transparency.
They maintained that deeper collaboration between the private sector, financial institutions, and capital market operators would be essential to unlocking the full potential of Nigerian businesses and supporting economic diversification efforts.
As Nigeria seeks to stimulate economic growth and strengthen private-sector participation, stakeholders believe that improved access to capital market financing could become a game-changer for thousands of SMEs across the country.
