Millions of Nigerians powering the country’s informal economy may be standing on fragile ground, as a new study by Moniepoint Microfinance Bank reveals that 42 percent of small business operators do not have enough savings to survive beyond one month without income.
The report, backed by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), will be officially launched on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
Described as the heartbeat of the nation’s economy, the informal sector accounts for over 80 percent of employment and drives most of Nigeria’s daily economic activity. Yet, despite its strength in numbers, the study shows how vulnerable this critical workforce remains in the face of financial shocks and limited access to formal support systems.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Babatunde Olofin, Managing Director of Moniepoint Microfinance Bank, said the Informal Economy Report 2025 goes beyond data collection. “This is a deep dive into the realities of everyday entrepreneurs, from market traders to artisans. It’s about understanding their struggles and helping to design policies that truly work for them,” he noted.
The event is expected to draw an impressive lineup of government leaders, regulators, lawmakers, industry experts, academics, and civil society representatives. Attendees will engage in keynote sessions and panel discussions exploring how Nigeria can build a more inclusive and sustainable economic landscape.
The 2025 edition builds on the success of the inaugural Informal Economy Report, which earned high praise from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), SMEDAN, and the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment for its credible insights and practical policy recommendations.
With this latest report, Moniepoint reinforces its mission to champion financial inclusion, empower informal businesses, and strengthen the backbone of Nigeria’s economy through data, innovation, and collaboration.
