BY ABDUL-KADIR ABDULLAH/ ABRAHAM OSOSE EDENIYERE
The Edo Business Connect, a transformative initiative aimed at streamlining business operations and empowering entrepreneurs, took centre stage in Benin City today as stakeholders from government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), development organisations, and the private sector gathered for a high-level engagement ahead of the launch of Nigeria’s first digital business platform.
This pioneering platform is designed to simplify business processes, promote entrepreneurship, and boost visibility for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Edo State.
The session, marked by active participation from key officials and partners, reflected a shared commitment to building a seamless digital ecosystem for business operations in the state.
Once operational, the platform will enable businesses to register, access government support, and benefit from streamlined service delivery.
A joint effort by the Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO), the German development agency GIZ, and the Edo State Digital Governance and Data Management Agency (EDODiDA), Edo Business Connect is positioned to make Edo a benchmark for business-friendly governance in Nigeria.
In his welcome address, Mr Amen Odigie, Managing Director of ESIPO, underscored the initiative’s economic significance.
“Edo Business Connect is a testament to our commitment to digital transformation for inclusive development,” he said.
“The support of ministries, departments, and agencies is vital to its success as we work together to make Edo a centre of business innovation.”
Dr (Mrs) Ewe Rita Samuropa, the Acting Managing Director of EDODiDA, gave an in-depth overview of the platform’s features, describing it as a groundbreaking tool designed to serve all members of society, whether literate, semi-literate, or illiterate. “Edo Business Connect will provide a digital directory of businesses, access to loans and grants, and real-time updates on government programmes,” she said.
“It also includes a complaints and feedback system to ensure timely resolution of issues by relevant authorities.”
To be hosted on the Edo State Government server, the platform is scheduled for official launch between now and August.
Both formal and informal businesses will be required to register in order to access its wide-ranging benefits, which are aimed at improving efficiency and accessibility.
Mr Osahon Okoh, Policy Advisor to GIZ, highlighted the importance of digital tools in removing bureaucratic bottlenecks that often frustrate micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
“Through our partnership with the Edo State Government, we are leveraging technology to create a more enabling business environment,” he said.
“Edo Business Connect will bridge the gap between government and the private sector, promoting closer collaboration and greater efficiency.”
He also noted the platform’s user-centric design. “We have worked closely with both government officials and business owners to ensure Edo Business Connect meets real-world needs.
“Toll-free support lines will also be available, ensuring businesses, regardless of size or location can access help without difficulty.”
Mr Joel Odionwe, a retired Permanent Secretary and Coordinator of the Edo State One-Stop Investment Centre, praised the platform’s potential to empower informal enterprises by giving them an online presence and access to vital government services. “This is about connecting the government with its people,” he said.
“The platform not only showcases what businesses do but also ensures their needs are recognised and addressed.”
As Edo Business Connect approaches full rollout, stakeholders reiterated their strong support, highlighting collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision of economic empowerment.
The platform is set to redefine the business environment in Edo State, equipping entrepreneurs with essential tools for growth while strengthening ties between the government and its dynamic business community.
For businesses ready to embrace this digital shift, Edo Business Connect promises to be a game-changer—offering growth, visibility, and new opportunities in the heartbeat of Nigeria.
