By Chinedu Chukwuemelie
The Chief Executive Officer of the Solution Innovation District (SID), Ms. Chinwe Okoli, has urged Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Anambra State to embrace innovation and digital transformation, describing them as essential for business growth and long-term sustainability.
Ms. Okoli made the call during the Stanbic IBTC Nigeria Business Summit Regional Tour, Onitsha Edition, held on July 29, where she participated in a panel discussion on “Accelerating Enterprise Growth Through Public-Private Collaboration.”
She joined the panel alongside the Anambra State Commissioner for Commerce, Hon. Nonso Chukwuma Ebonwu; Chairman of the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Nnaemeka Ikeazor; and Vice President of the National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Mr. Chinemerem Oguegbe.
Addressing participants, Ms. Okoli said innovation is no longer optional for businesses seeking to remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic global economy.
“Innovation is no longer a competitive advantage; it is a business necessity,” she said.
She explained that digital technologies are reshaping the way businesses operate, create value, generate income and engage customers., encouraging entrepreneurs to adopt digital tools, leverage artificial intelligence and automation where appropriate and utilise digital marketing and compelling content to enhance customer engagement and expand their market reach.
The SID Chief Executive highlighted the support available to entrepreneurs through the Solution Innovation District (SID), the Anambra State Small Business Agency (ASBA) and the Ministry of Commerce, noting that the agencies are working collaboratively under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, to build a stronger innovation ecosystem and stimulate enterprise-led economic growth across the state.
According to her, businesses that embrace continuous learning, adopt emerging technologies and respond quickly to changing market demands will be better positioned to thrive in the digital economy.
Ms. Okoli reaffirmed SID’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs through digital skills development, business incubation, startup support, strategic partnerships and improved access to emerging technologies.
She added that Anambra is steadily positioning itself as a leading innovation hub where technology, entrepreneurship and collaboration are driving economic transformation and creating opportunities for businesses to compete successfully at both national and global levels.
The Stanbic IBTC Nigeria Business Summit brought together policymakers, business leaders, financial experts, and entrepreneurs to discuss practical strategies for improving access to finance, expanding market opportunities, and strengthening policy support for MSMEs.
Chinedu Chukwuemelie is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
