SMEs in Ogbomoso – The Hidden Potential
In the heart of Oyo State lies a city known for its rich heritage, academic excellence, peaceful atmosphere — Ogbomoso. However, beyond its historic walls along with it’s university acclaim is an ecosystem of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) teeming with raw talent, innovation, and entrepreneurial drive. These SMEs are though often operating under the radar. However, they are the backbone of the local economy and hold immense potential for the city. And not just for the city but also for Nigeria and the global market.
When people hear “Ogbomoso,” what often comes to mind is a quiet, rural town tucked away in southwestern Nigeria. A town known more for its cashew and mango than for any economic buzz. A place seen as lacking the buzz and development of bigger cities like Lagos or Ibadan. Probably known because of its cashew and mango. But beneath that perception lies something truly remarkable: a rising wave of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) that are not just surviving, they’re innovating, scaling, and reshaping the local economy.
From fashion designers creating contemporary styles with traditional fabrics, to bakers, agripreneurs, tech freelancers, mechanics, event planners, and local manufacturers — Ogbomoso is buzzing with enterprising minds. Many of these businesses are built on grit, passion, and community support. They thrive without grants, often without external funding, using available resources to deliver excellence. Yet, they remain hidden gems, unseen by the larger world due to limited digital presence, poor access to markets, and low brand visibility.
While the world may dismiss Ogbomoso as underdeveloped, local entrepreneurs are rewriting that narrative. They’re crafting value from the ground up, these aren’t just businesses; they are solutions born out of need and driven by passion. It’s time for the world to look beyond the obvious and invest in places like Ogbomoso; not out of charity, but because the future of sustainable enterprise could very well be hidden in plain sight.
What’s missing? Visibility!
The world needs to see what we see: potential that can scale globally. It’s time to amplify their voices, showcase their stories. Also to connect them to the platforms, people, and partnerships that can drive growth.
Interestingly, a digital revolution is brewing. Young creatives and marketing professionals are rising to spotlight these businesses. And are working to help them build brands, expand online, and tell their stories. An initiative like “Operation DOE” (Digitalizing Ogbomoso Economy) is aimed at intentionally showcasing Ogbomoso’s local excellence to the world. This reminds us that global relevance can start from grassroots transformation.
The world needs to see Ogbomoso’s SMEs not as small-town ventures, but as global contenders. With the right exposure, tools, and platforms, these businesses can scale, create jobs, and spark innovation. Then ultimately inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Because when Ogbomoso’s potential is unleashed, it doesn’t just change a city; it changes the narrative of what’s possible from “the small towns” of Africa.