Communication and entertainment app Ayoba has announced its strategic partnership with Adanian Labs
The app is an all-inclusive platform for calling, messaging, and gaming, news, entertainment, and e-commerce. Both Ayoba and Adanian Labs have partnered to launch an SME accelerator programme aimed at empowering and accelerating the growth of small businesses in Nigeria. This initiative comes at a crucial time, as Nigerian SMEs play a vital role in driving economic growth and job creation in the country.
The SME accelerator aims to address the key challenges faced by small businesses, including limited access to capital, technology infrastructure, access to market and mentorship. The programme is designed to foster innovation, improve competitiveness, drive growth and create sustainable employment opportunities. The programme will also provide Nigerian SMEs with access to vital resources, including digitalisation, mentorship, access to networks, technological support, and mobilisation of partners for funding enabling them to overcome barriers and achieve sustainable growth.
According to recent statistics, small and medium enterprises account for over 90% of businesses in Africa, contributing approximately 50% of employment and 33% of the continent's GDP. In Nigeria alone, SMEs represent about 96% of businesses, employing millions of people and serving as engines of innovation and economic progress.
Shiela Yabo, Ayoba’s head of ecosystem development said, “The potential impact of empowering Nigerian SMEs is significant. By strengthening this sector, the country can experience accelerated economic growth, increased job opportunities, and enhanced competitiveness on the global stage. Furthermore, supporting small businesses fosters entrepreneurship, drives innovation, and contributes to wealth creation, ultimately improving the overall socio-economic landscape of Nigeria.”
Killian Mayua, country manager for Adanian Labs, Nigeria, said, "We are thrilled to collaborate with Ayoba in launching the SME Accelerator program, which holds great promise for Nigerian small businesses. Adanian Labs is a firm believer that Africa will realise its full potential once its SME sector is transformed. We have dedicated our work to building solutions that powers and digitises SME’s. Our joint efforts will support the growth of SMEs, boost economic resilience, and contribute to the overall development of this important sector."
The partnership between Ayoba and Adanian Labs, through the launch of the SME Accelerator, represents a significant milestone in fostering innovation, driving entrepreneurship, and contributing towards economic empowerment positioning Nigeria as a hub for SME growth and development.
