Leading Academic Unveils Groundbreaking Book on Entrepreneurship, SMEs

The Chief Operating Officer of Pan-Atlantic University, Dr Peter Bamkole, has undertaken a strategic initiative to fortify and establish a sustainable roadmap for the operations of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria. He recently introduced a book titled “Built by Enterprise – Unlocking the Potentials of SMEs in Nigeria” to address this need.

The book launch event, held at the Metropolitan Club in Victoria Island, Lagos, witnessed the presence of esteemed individuals such as Vice Chancellor Prof. Enase Okonedo, former VC Prof. Albert Alos, Chief Audit Executive of Zenith Bank Mogbitse Atsagbede, Professor of Corporate Governance at Lagos Business School Prof. Fabian Ajogwu, Chairman of the event Chief Olu Ayeni, Pro-Chancellor Father Anthony Odoh, Director of Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) Ms. Nneka Okekearu, and other distinguished guests.

Dr. Bamkole, a pioneer director at EDC, expressed, “This book promises an insightful exploration into the dynamic landscape of SMEs in Nigeria.” He emphasized that “Built by Enterprise” is the culmination of a 20-year journey, shedding light on the significant growth and impact of the Enterprise Development Centre at Pan-Atlantic University on SMEs in Nigeria and beyond.

The author employed dynamic storytelling, insightful case studies, and visual maps to craft this masterpiece, aiming to awaken the entrepreneurial spirit in its readers. The book delves into the challenges faced by SMEs in Nigeria, and their deployed strategies, and celebrates their transformative role in shaping the economy.

Prof. Ajogwu, the reviewer, praised “Built by Enterprise” as an authentic account of executing a vision to support entrepreneurial ventures. He highlighted the wisdom of empowering individuals and guiding them through the entire value chain, from suppliers and customers to access to capital, market access, and understanding governance and the business environment.

The 15-chapter book covers diverse topics, including ecosystem development, enabling female entrepreneurs, sustaining the social agenda, impact meeting circularity, building systemic changes, reaching more people through e-learning, and establishing international networks and infrastructure to support enterprise development.

Reeta Roy, CEO of Mastercard Foundation, commended the book, noting that it chronicles the creation of EDC and its entrepreneurial journey, showcasing the stories of individuals whose ingenuity and determination have transformed lives.

Founder of Global Business School Network, Guy Pfeffermann, described the book as an excellent work by an exceptional individual, serving as a guide on how to grow a successful institution. He emphasized that EDC has become more than a learning institution—it has become a movement.

Prof. Okonedo concluded by stating that the book is not just about EDC but is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and collaboration in driving social and economic change. She believes it could serve as a guide and motivation for those aspiring to embark on an entrepreneurial journey.

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