Keystone Bank Rallies SMEs Across Nigeria

In a bid to power Nigeria’s economic engine, Keystone Bank has taken a bold step to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with a nationwide business clinic campaign. The initiative, which spanned 10 cities in June 2025, was part of the bank’s efforts to mark World SME Day, themed “Empowering SMEs for Growth and Sustainability.”

Business owners in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, Onitsha, and Abuja were among thousands who benefitted from the training programme, which focused on practical solutions for financing, sustainability, and scaling. Markets such as Balogun and Computer Village also saw active participation from vendors and entrepreneurs.

Commenting on the initiative, Olayemi Sule, Group Head of Retail and Digital Banking at Keystone Bank, said the goal was to help SMEs thrive amid Nigeria’s shifting economic landscape. “The SME Business Clinic was designed to equip business owners with practical tools and knowledge to scale their ventures, build resilience, and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth,” she stated.

Practical Tools for Real Entrepreneurs

Each clinic featured workshops led by experts in finance, tech, and strategy. The sessions allowed participants to ask questions and receive immediate guidance tailored to their specific industries. The clinics addressed pressing challenges such as access to credit, managing inventory, and adapting to digital platforms.

For many, the experience was more than just business training—it was validation. Participants expressed appreciation for Keystone Bank’s human approach. Some attendees said they finally felt “seen and heard” in a system that often overlooks informal businesses.

According to the 2024 Moniepoint Informal Economy Report, Nigeria is home to around 40 million micro, small, and medium enterprises. Of that number, nearly 89.4% operate within the informal economy. Keystone Bank’s effort speaks directly to this often-ignored market segment and signals a deeper commitment to inclusive financial services.

A Stronger Financial Future

As Nigeria works to strengthen its informal economy and boost digital inclusion, initiatives like this clinic may become increasingly vital. By connecting directly with business owners, Keystone Bank has set a new standard for what localised support can look like.

The clinics are part of a broader strategy that aligns with global development goals for SME empowerment and financial literacy. As the sector continues to grow, experts believe partnerships between financial institutions and entrepreneurs will be essential to unlocking Nigeria’s full economic potential.