ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Federal Government has announced plans to disburse over N1 billion to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises under the 2026 National MSME Awards.
The Senior Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, made this known during a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.
Adekunle-Johnson stated that the awards portal will open on April 7 and close on May 7, encouraging MSMEs across the country to apply.
He explained that the 2026 edition, themed “Renewed Hope for MSMEs,” will focus more on financial grants to boost business growth.
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“This year, we are focusing more on funding, giving grants that can directly support and grow MSME businesses.
“We are going to be spending, with the support of our partners, up to about one billion naira for these awards,” he said.
He noted that this marks a departure from previous editions where rewards such as cars, houses and shops were the main incentives.
According to him, the new strategy is designed to provide direct funding that addresses the immediate needs of businesses.
Adekunle-Johnson added that the government, in partnership with stakeholders, will ensure broader distribution of financial rewards across different categories.
He further stated that more beneficiaries will receive support beyond the top three winners in each category.
The presidential aide also disclosed that winners will benefit from mentorship programmes facilitated by relevant government agencies.
He added that these agencies will offer post-award support, including business advisory services and access to markets.
According to him, exceptional MSMEs may also be sponsored to participate in international exhibitions.
He said the awards will recognise excellence in innovation, creativity, job creation and the use of technology.
Adekunle-Johnson acknowledged that previous editions faced challenges with low-quality applications.
He noted that efforts are ongoing to improve awareness and encourage more serious participation nationwide.
He assured that the selection process will remain transparent and merit-driven.
According to him, the grand finale is scheduled for June 27 to mark the United Nations World MSME Day.
A representative of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Mrs. Sarah Ajayi, said about 12 categories will be featured, covering major sectors of the economy.
Ajayi listed these sectors to include manufacturing, agriculture, textiles, creative industries, innovation, and beauty and wellness.
She stressed that compliance will be a key requirement in the selection process and urged applicants to provide proper documentation, including regulatory approvals, tax records and relevant certifications.
She also emphasised that participants must submit high-quality video presentations demonstrating their production processes and value addition.
Other stakeholders at the briefing pledged their support, assuring collaboration to ensure a credible selection process, regulatory compliance and effective post-award mentorship to promote the growth and sustainability of MSMEs nationwide.