Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria has encouraged small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to strengthen their export capabilities and improve their readiness for cross-border trade as they pursue growth opportunities in international markets.
The bank made the call during its International SME Day 2026 client engagement session in Lagos, themed “Scaling Beyond Borders in a Changing Global Market.” The event brought together regulators, industry experts, business leaders, and SME owners to explore strategies for export development, trade facilitation, and expanding into regional and global markets.
Discussions centred on the evolving global business environment, collaboration across the trade ecosystem, and the role of financial institutions in helping Nigerian businesses access international markets.
Speaking at the event, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited, Ayodeji Adelagun, described SMEs as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.
He noted that SMEs account for about 96 per cent of businesses in the country, contribute nearly half of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and provide employment for a significant portion of the workforce.
According to Adelagun, changing consumer preferences, digital transformation, and regional integration are creating new opportunities for Nigerian businesses to compete beyond local markets.
However, he stressed that businesses must also overcome challenges such as currency volatility, changing trade policies, supply chain disruptions, infrastructure deficits, technology adoption gaps, and limited access to affordable finance.
He urged entrepreneurs to build resilient businesses by embracing technology, improving compliance with international standards, investing in quality, and forming strategic partnerships that can strengthen their export readiness.
The event featured a keynote address by the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Nonye Ayeni, alongside a panel discussion with representatives from the Nigeria Customs Service and Standard Chartered Bank.
The Assistant Comptroller for Trade Facilitation at the Nigeria Customs Service, Burhan Idris Sulaiman, advised SMEs seeking to enter export markets to prioritise proper documentation, accurate product classification, regulatory compliance, and early engagement with relevant government agencies.
He noted that businesses that understand customs requirements and maintain accurate records are better positioned to reduce delays, manage costs, and compete successfully in regional and international markets.
Speaking on the bank’s commitment to SMEs, the Head of SME Banking at Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, Bisi Oke, said the engagement was designed to provide businesses with more than financial services.
She explained that the bank aims to connect SMEs with market insights, strategic partnerships, international networks, and financial solutions that can support export-led growth and improve their competitiveness in global markets.
Standard Chartered said more than 200 clients and stakeholders participated in the event, reaffirming its commitment to helping Nigerian SMEs scale beyond borders through access to knowledge, partnerships, financing, and global trade opportunities.