The NGX and BOI SME financing partnership has now received commendation from financial sector stakeholders, including the Managing Director of Mutual Trust Microfinance Bank, Josh Oyebisi, who described the initiative as a crucial step toward unlocking long-term capital for Nigerian businesses.
Expanding SME Access to Capital Markets
The collaboration, which was reinforced during a recent workshop in Kano, focuses on integrating SMEs into Nigeria’s formal capital market system.
According to NGX and BOI officials, the initiative is designed to:
- Bridge the gap between SMEs and long-term financing
- Improve business governance and investment readiness
- Expand access to structured capital market funding
The programme is part of a broader national effort to strengthen enterprise development and economic diversification.
Josh Oyebisi Commends the Partnership Between NGX and BOI
Reacting to the development, Josh Oyebisi, Managing Director of Mutual Trust Microfinance Bank, lauded the partnership, describing it as a timely intervention that will reshape SME financing in Nigeria.
He noted that SMEs remain the backbone of the Nigerian economy but continue to face serious liquidity constraints that limit expansion and sustainability.
Oyebisi emphasized that:
- Access to structured financing remains critical for SME survival
- Partnerships like NGX–BOI help reduce funding gaps
- Capital market integration can unlock long-term business growth
He further stressed that microfinance institutions also have a key role to play in preparing small businesses for formal financing opportunities.
Strengthening Financial Inclusion and Growth
The NGX and BOI initiative is aimed at addressing Nigeria’s estimated SME financing gap by creating alternative funding pathways beyond traditional bank lending.
Stakeholders say the partnership will help SMEs:
- Access investment-grade financing structures
- Improve financial transparency and governance
- Transition from informal to structured business operations
BOI has also reiterated its commitment to capacity building for enterprises that are not yet investment-ready, ensuring they can eventually access capital market funding.
Capital Market as a Growth Driver
Officials from NGX highlighted that SMEs are critical to deepening Nigeria’s capital market and driving economic resilience.
The initiative focuses on:
- Demystifying capital market participation
- Supporting SME listing readiness
- Encouraging sustainable long-term financing models
Experts believe this approach will reduce dependence on short-term credit and improve business stability.
Oyebisi Explains the Economic Impact of the NGX and BOI Partnership
Analysts say the NGX–BOI collaboration could significantly reshape SME development in Nigeria by:
- Boosting job creation
- Strengthening industrial productivity
- Expanding access to investment capital
- Supporting innovation and entrepreneurship
Josh Oyebisi’s endorsement adds further momentum to growing calls for stronger institutional support for SMEs.
Conclusion
The deepening partnership between both parties represents a strategic effort to unlock financing opportunities for SMEs across Nigeria.
With stakeholders like Josh Oyebisi praising the BOI and NGX partnership, the collaboration is expected to play a key role in bridging financing gaps, strengthening financial inclusion, and driving sustainable economic growth.
