Business
THE World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) has called for stronger angel investor participation to support Nigerian startups.
The forum said increased investment was needed to help startups overcome funding challenges and compete globally.
The call was made on Thursday during the World Business Angels Investors Week 2026 in Lagos.
The event was with the theme: ‘Entrepreneurship Without Borders: Advancing Partnerships for a Sustainable Future.’
Head of Programmes and Trade Missions, World Trade Centre Abuja, Mrs Goodness Alabi, said startup funding declined in 2025.
Alabi said funding dropped by 17 per cent to $333 million, the lowest level since 2019.
She, however, noted that Nigeria remained Africa’s most active startup market despite the decline.
According to her, 86 Nigerian startups raised at least $100,000 in 2025, the continent’s highest deal count.
“The figures show that Nigerian entrepreneurs remain innovative but need stronger investment support to scale globally,” she said.
Alabi described angel investors as ecosystem builders, knowledge brokers and international connectors.
“Angel investors are not just early-stage funders; they help businesses access expertise and global opportunities,” she said.
She said cross-border angel investments were increasingly important for market access and strategic partnerships.
Alabi added that internationally backed startups were more likely to export products and expand beyond local markets.
She said angel investors also helped entrepreneurs navigate regulations and global market requirements.
Country Chair of WBAF Nigeria, Dr Roselinen Amangbo, said Nigeria’s ecosystem was positioned for global opportunities.
Amangbo said fintech, agritech, health technology and digital services were driving transformation and inclusion.
She urged stakeholders to promote modern financing structures and supportive regulations for innovation.
WBAF Chairman, Mr Baybars Altuntas, said entrepreneurship remained a driver of economic growth.
Altuntas said stronger ecosystems would improve financial inclusion and expand access to capital.
He noted that many entrepreneurs globally still faced challenges accessing finance and mentorship.
Senior Policy Adviser for Economic Affairs at the Netherlands Consulate General in Lagos, Mr Opeyemi Oriniowo, sought collaboration.
Oriniowo said innovation, capital and talent were now global, making partnerships essential.
He urged African countries to leverage entrepreneurship and integration for investment opportunities.
Director for the WBAF Nigeria Event, Ms Wofai Samuel, said the forum supported economic development.
Samuel said growth depended on innovation, entrepreneurship and investment collaboration among stakeholders.
She said the platform connected local enterprises with global opportunities and accelerated partnerships.
“Every investment secured and business expanded creates multiplier effects for sustainable growth,” Samuel said. (NAN)
Tags: Angel Investors Start ups