(Ecofin Agency) - Bridging this funding gap is crucial for the country, which will need to create up to 130 million jobs over the next 20 years. Contributing 90% of job opportunities, MSMEs are the key to achieving this goal.

Nigeria needs $160 billion to meet the funding demands of its micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), according to an analysis by the African Development Bank (AfDB). This massive amount highlights the challenges in financing these businesses, which are crucial to the country’s economy.

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa with 229 million people as of 2023, faces a significant gap between available financial resources and what is needed. As of September 2024, the Central Bank of Nigeria reported that the total money supply was ₦108.954 trillion, roughly $65.5 billion at the current exchange rate—far short of what MSMEs require.

MSMEs are critical to Nigeria's economy. They contribute 40% of the country’s GDP and provide 90% of jobs. This is particularly important in a country where half the population is under 17.2 years old. Over the next five years, Nigeria will need to create opportunities for its young population, whether through employment or entrepreneurship. Over the next 20 years, the AfDB estimates that the country must generate up to 130 million jobs for its youth.

However, access to investment capital remains a major challenge. Many young entrepreneurs, especially women, lack the education, resources, or collateral to secure loans from commercial banks. Studies show that less than 1% of banking loans—approximately $340 million—go to MSMEs. In addition, private equity and venture capital funding totaled just $640 million in 2023.

Due to these financial hurdles, many small businesses in Nigeria struggle to survive beyond five years, according to Nigerian government data. To address this, local authorities have taken steps, including urging commercial banks to allocate 10% of their loan portfolios to MSMEs and creating entrepreneurship support funds. However, these measures fall short of meeting the demand.

In response, the AfDB is leading a $300 million initiative to establish a financing mechanism for MSMEs. The bank plans to contribute $100 million in loans. The French Development Agency (AFD) will match this amount, providing equity funding. An additional $30 million will come from the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority and the Development Bank of Nigeria. The remaining funds are expected from the European Union and partnerships with Japan.

This situation reflects broader challenges in achieving inclusive economic growth in Africa. Building a robust and financially independent local system is essential to support key areas of economic growth, including consumption, investment, and exports. However, many young Nigerians, like their peers in other developing nations, remain drawn to goods produced in foreign economies, further complicating the path to sustainable growth.