‘A Son of Nobody Can Become Somebody’ — Odii Praises Tinubu, Highlights Impact on Small Businesses

The Director General/CEO of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr.

Charles Odii, has expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for appointing him at the age of 35. He also commended the President for approving two hundred billion naira to support the growth of small businesses across Nigeria.
Mr. Odii made these remarks while speaking at the National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held at Eagle Square in Abuja.
According to him, the two hundred billion naira intervention has already impacted about one million small businesses across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
He explained that if each of these businesses employs at least two people, it translates to approximately two million jobs created within the last two years under President Tinubu’s administration.
In his words, the President also approved and supported the formalization of small businesses. Currently, about two hundred and fifty thousand small businesses across the 36 states and the FCT are being registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) at minimal cost.
Mr. Odii further noted that the administration has created an enabling environment where individuals can succeed regardless of background, emphasizing that “a son of nobody can become somebody without knowing anybody,” a principle he said is being demonstrated at SMEDAN.
He added that Nigerian small businesses are now gaining international attention in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Japan, attributing this progress to the policies of the Tinubu-led administration. He also revealed that SMEDAN is working to harmonize various support initiatives to help small businesses thrive.
The SMEDAN boss also praised the President’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative, stating that it has significantly reduced transportation costs for small business operators, making it easier and cheaper to move goods across the country.
“Our small businesses are grateful to you, Mr. President. This is not mere lip service. On behalf of millions of small business owners and stakeholders, I sincerely appreciate all you have done to reposition the sector since assuming office,” he said.
While once again thanking President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve at a young age, Mr. Odii assured that he would justify the confidence reposed in him by contributing meaningfully to the realization of the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the area of SMEs and national economic development.