GOODWILL MESSAGE DELIVEREDBY MR. EDWIN IGBITI, PRESIDENT/CHAIRMAN OFCOUNCIL, CHARTERED INSURANCE INSTITUTE OF NIGERIA AT THE YEAR 2024 NIGERIA NATIONAL SME BUSINESS AWARDS(NNSBA)HELDAT THE CIVIC CENTER, OZUMBA MBADIWE WAY,
VICTORIA ISLAND, LAGOS STATE.
The Chairman of the Occasion
The Managing Director/CEO
Industry Giants Present
Distinguished Guests
Members of Staff
Gentlemen of the Press
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today as the President of the Chartered Insurance Institute to extend a heartfelt goodwill message at the Nigeria National SME Business Awards 2024.
First and foremost, I want to congratulate every entrepreneur, innovator, and business leader who has been nominated for an award tonight. Your dedication, hard work, and
ingenuity are the cornerstones of our nation’s economic prosperity. In the face of challenges, you have displayed resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, and for that, you deserve recognition and admiration.
The SME sector is the backbone of any thriving economy, and Nigeria is no exception. Small and Medium Enterprises play a pivotal role in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, creating employment opportunities, and promoting social development.
Your contributions extend far beyond the confines of your businesses; they ripple
throughout communities, empowering individuals, and uplifting livelihoods.
As we gather here tonight to celebrate the achievements of our SMEs, let us not forget the journey that has led us to this moment. It has been marked by countless sacrifices, sleepless nights, and moments of doubt. Yet, through it all, you have persevered,fueled
by a vision of a better tomorrow and a steadfast belief in your abilities.
However, amidst our celebration, let us also acknowledge the challenges that SMEs continue to face. From limited access to finance and resources to regulatory hurdles and market competition, the path to success is fraught with obstacles. Yet, I am confident that with resilience, creativity, and strategic planning, you will overcome these challenges and
emerge stronger than ever before.
As Insurance people, we recognize the importance of risk management and financial protection for SMEs. In an ever-evolving business landscape, insurance plays a crucial role in safeguarding against unforeseen events and providing the necessary support to
navigate uncertainties. We are committed to partnering with SMEs, providing tailored insurance solutions, and empowering you to mitigate risks effectively, thus enabling you to focus on what you do best –driving innovation and growth.
In conclusion, let me once again extend my sincerest congratulations to all the nominees and winners tonight. Your achievements serve as an inspiration to us all and a testament to the limitless potential of Nigerian entrepreneurship. As we look towards the future, let
us continue to foster a conducive environment for SMEs to thrive, unleash their full potential, and contribute to the socio-economic development of our beloved nation.
Thank you, and let today be a celebration of success, resilience, and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines us as Nigerians.
God bless you all, and God bless Nigeria!
Mr. Edwin Igbiti
President/Chairman of Council,
Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria
