Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are critical to Nigeria’s food system and economy. They drive innovation, job creation, and food production, ensuring that nutritious and affordable foods reach underserved communities. Yet despite their vital role, MSMEs face systemic barriers that limit their ability to scale nutrition-focused solutions.
To address these challenges, the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) and the Scaling Up Nutrition Business Network (SBN) convened a National Nutrition Policy Dialogue in Abuja. The event brought together SBN Regional and State Hub Leads, along with representatives from government ministries, businesses, academia, civil society organizations, and development partners.
Challenges Faced by Nutrition MSMEs
The policy dialogue highlighted several systemic barriers impacting nutrition-focused MSMEs:
- Regulatory overlaps – multiple agencies with overlapping mandates increase compliance costs.
- Limited access to finance – high interest rates and lack of tailored financial products restrict SME growth.
- Policy inconsistencies – fragmented policy environments hinder long-term planning and investment.
Actionable Recommendations
Participants proposed strategies to create an enabling environment for MSMEs, including:
- Harmonising regulatory frameworks to reduce complexity and costs.
- Developing cluster-based financing models to improve access to capital for nutrition enterprises.
- Enhancing financial literacy and training for MSMEs to strengthen sustainability.
Strengthening Stakeholder Commitments
The dialogue concluded with a call to action for businesses, policymakers, and development actors to:
- Commit to training programs that build the capacity of SMEs.
- Support advocacy initiatives for streamlined policy reform.
- Invest in innovative financing solutions tailored to nutrition enterprises.
By aligning the interests of the private sector and policymakers, this convening sets the stage for stronger policies, increased investment, and sustainable solutions that empower MSMEs to play a greater role in improving food and nutrition security across Nigeria.
📖 Download the publication here: GAIN Convening Paper No. 13 – National Policy Dialogue for Food and Nutrition-Focused Businesses
