Welcome to The Caladium SME Community
52% of Nigerian SMEs identify access to affordable financing as their biggest challenge. Yet, over 60% still rely solely on personal savings to survive. Where are the banks?
Our mission
Enhancing Business Management for Sustainable Growth
We are committed to strengthening the business management capabilities of MSMEs, increasing their chances of success in alignment with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and reducing their risks of failure. Through our support, we aim to foster sustainable economic growth, encourage innovation, and create decent employment opportunities for all.
Determination
We are driven by an unwavering determination to help MSMEs overcome challenges and grow sustainably. Our mission is to foster a mindset of perseverance, where setbacks are seen as opportunities to learn, adapt, and keep moving forward toward success.
Collaborative
At Caladium SME Community, we believe in the power of collaboration. We know that great ideas are born when diverse minds come together, share their knowledge, and work toward common goals. By fostering partnerships, we enable businesses to innovate and thrive.
Opportunities
We actively seek and create opportunities for MSMEs to grow, improve, and succeed. By helping businesses recognize and seize opportunities, we contribute to their long-term success and economic impact, driving positive change in line with SDG 8—promoting decent work and sustainable economic growth.
Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship is the heartbeat of our mission. We support and nurture passionate, creative, and resilient entrepreneurs who are ready to take bold steps. We empower them with the resources, knowledge, and guidance needed to turn their visions into reality and create lasting value for their communities.
Meet Caladium SME Partners
Our commitment to small businesses in Nigeria strengthens the growth of MSMEs through capacity-building initiatives that improve lives and drive sustainable success. We work alongside entrepreneurs and business leaders to create meaningful impact and foster a thriving local economy.
Become a partnerOur community
We are deeply committed to small businesses in Nigeria, ensuring the growth of MSMEs through capacity-building initiatives that enhance lives and foster long-term success. Together, we create a supportive ecosystem where businesses can thrive and contribute to the broader community.
Join our community
Meet Our Distinguished Speakers
Learn from industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs
Ashley Immanuel
Co-Founder & COO, Semicolon
Ashley leads operations, strategy, and partnerships at Semicolon, connecting young Africans to global opportunities through training in software engineering, product design, and entrepreneurship. Ashley Immanuel is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Semicolon, a pioneering organization developing tech talent and building innovative solutions that power Africa’s digital future. She leads operations, strategy, and partnerships that connect young Africans especially those from underserved backgrounds to global opportunities through training in software engineering, product design, and entrepreneurship. Prior to co-founding Semicolon, Ashley served as CEO of Enhancing Financial Innovation & Access (EFInA), driving financial inclusion across Nigeria, and worked with IBM Global Business Services in management consulting and strategy execution. She holds a degree in Sociology from Duke University and is passionate about technology, education, and inclusion. She continues to advocate for a continent where African youth Ashley Immanuel lead global innovation through skill, creativity, and purpose.
Suraj Oyewale
CEO, Jarus Homes
A respected voice in Nigeria's real estate scene, Suraj holds a First-Class degree in Economics and an MBA from Edinburgh Business School. Under his leadership, Jarus Homes has delivered dozens of housing units across major Nigerian cities. Suraj “Sir Jarus” Oyewale is the CEO of Jarus Homes, Founder of JarusHub, Jarus Travels, Jarus FC, and Fortrose Consulting, and a respected voice in Nigeria’s career, economic, and real estate scenes. Under his leadership, Jarus Homes & Investments has delivered dozens of housing units across major Nigerian cities, with a project portfolio that includes WhiteStreet Gardens in Ajah, Capital Court in Abuja, and Harrow Estate in Offa. He holds a First‐Class degree in Economics from Obafemi Awolowo University and an MBA from Edinburgh Business School, UK. He is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN).
Oluwatodimu Ige
Principal Partner, Oluwatodimu Ige & Associates
Known as "OgaTheLawyer," Todimu is a legal influencer and public educator who demystifies legal issues for the public. His firm specializes in commercial law, property law, and corporate governance. Oluwatodimu Ige is the Principal Partner at Oluwatodimu Ige & Associates, a law firm known for its expertise in commercial law, property law, arbitration, and corporate governance. He holds a Law degree from Olabisi Onabanjo University, a Diploma in Project Management, and is an Associate Arbitrator with the UK’s Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. Beyond legal practice, Todimu is a legal influencer and public educator, active on social media under the name “OgaTheLawyer,” where he demystifies legal issues for the public and advocates for legal literacy. His entrepreneurial interests span beyond law. He is the Founder of Toddy Domestic Services and serves as a Director at Poe Properties, applying a consistent standard of integrity, operational excellence, and clientcentric service across both businesses
John Oamen
Co-Founder & CEO, CutStruct Technology
John is transforming construction procurement in Nigeria through LiveVend. CutStruct has raised $600,000 in pre-seed funding and offers a comprehensive marketplace for construction materials. John Oamen is the Co‐Founder and Chief Executive Officer of CutStruct Technology, a proptech/construction tech startup transforming procurement in Nigeria through its platform (LiveVend). With a background in Real Estate & Finishing Work and through his company (Faultless Finish), he gained firsthand exposure to the inefficiencies, delays, and transparency gaps that that often plague procurement in the construction industry — which shaped the vision behind CutStruct. Under his leadership, CutStruct has raised $600,000 in pre‐seed funding from investors including Zedcrest Capital, DFS Lab, and LoftyInc, offering a marketplace for construction materials, vendor comparison, logistics, and insurance all aimed at helping contractors, developers, and material buyers procure more efficiently, transparently, and cost‐effectively.
Razaq Ahmed, CFA
Co-Founder & CEO, Cowrywise
Razaq is democratizing access to savings and investment for underserved millennials. Since launching in 2017, Cowrywise has grown to serve hundreds of thousands of users. Razaq Ahmed, CFA, is the Co‐Founder and CEO of Cowrywise; a Nigerian fintech on a mission to democratize access to savings and investment for underserved millennials and the growing middle class. Snce co-founding Cowrywise in 2017 with Edward Popoola, he has guided the company through regulatory approvals, built a platform offering 20+ mutual funds, and grownits user base into the hundreds of thousands. Prior to Cowrywise, Razaq worked as an Investment Analyst and Business Economist with Meristem, Vetiva Capital, and Shell. Heholds a First‐class degree in Economics from Obafemi Awolowo University, is a CFA Charterholder, and was elected President of CFA Society Nigeria in 2025.
Edward Isreal Ayide, CFA
Founder & CEO, Carpe Diem Solutions
Edward Israel-Ayide is the Founder and CEO of Carpe Diem Solutions, a Lagos-based strategic communications agency Edward Israel-Ayide is the Founder and CEO of Carpe Diem Solutions, a Lagos-based strategic communications agency. With a decade-long career dedicated to the effort to help clients build trust, he was named one of Nigeria's Top 50 PR Professionals in 2024. As a communications strategist, he advises C-suite executives and brands across various sectors, which include real estate, banking, entertainment, and technology. His campaigns focus on strategic storytelling, crisis management, and digital engagement to shape powerful narratives and build culturally resonant brands. Before he founded Carpe Diem, Edward honed his expertise in brand management within Nigeria's creative industries, which included a senior marketing role at Chocolate City Music. He is a recognized thought leader who shares his insights on brand management, business, and politics on a regular basis.
Foza Fawehinmi
Lead Legal Consultant, Zaeda Oracle
A leading entertainment lawyer with over nine years of experience advising creatives and entertainment companies on intellectual property, contracts, and business strategy. Oyinkansola “Foza” Fawehinmi is a leading entertainment lawyer and business consultant, serving as Lead Legal Consultant at Zaeda Oracle. She also heads Digital Music Commerce and Exchange Limited (DMCE), an IP valuation, catalog management, and administration firm active across Sub‐Saharan Africa. She holds a Law degree from Babcock University and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2014. Foza has built over 9 years of experience advising creatives, entertainment companies, and governments on intellectual property, contracts, licensing, publishing, and business strategy in the creative sector. She is also the Founder of Technolawgical Partners; a boutique law firm focused on entertainment, media, and technology.
Godwin Tom
Managing Director, Sony Music Publishing Nigeria
With over 20 years in the African music industry, Godwin has managed top artists including Wizkid, Davido, and MI. He's also the founder of the Music Business Academy for Africa. Godwin Tom is the Managing Director of Sony Music Publishing, Nigeria, where he is responsible for leading the company’s operations and strategy in the Nigerian market, while also overseeing growth across Ghana, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa With over 20 years of experience in the African music industry, he previously served as CEO of iManage Africa, where he managed some of Africa’s most celebrated artists including Wizkid, Davido, MI, Wande Coal, and Ice Prince. He is also the Founder of the Music Business Academy for Africa, an e-learning platform dedicated to building capacity and professionalism in the African music industry.
Adebayo Adegun
Lead Partner & CEO, CrossTie Solutions
With over 15 years of experience, Adebayo has trained over 5,000 professionals and led change initiatives for major organizations including CBN and Lagos State Government. Adebayo Adegun is the Lead Partner & CEO of CrossTie Solutions, a Lagos-based organisational development and people transformation consultancy. With over 15 years of experience, he has built a reputation for helping both public and private sector organisations improve leadership, culture, and performance. Since founding CrossTie in 2013, Adebayo has trained over 5,000 professionals and led change initiatives for clients such as the Central Bank of Nigeria, Lagos State Government, Seplat, and Stanbic IBTC. He blends strategic frameworks with hands-on execution, underpinned by a belief in transformation, experience, and excellence.
Mobolaji Ajayi
Founder & CEO, Purelife Health
Mobolaji is transforming healthcare access across Nigeria through her health-tech platform. Purelife has expanded to 11 states and serves over 100,000 users. Mobolaji is an advocate for digital health and women in technology.
Isah Yusuf Aruwa, FCA
Technical Lead, Dangote Industries Limited
Isah oversees finance, reporting, and audit functions in the GMD's office at Dangote Industries. He brings extensive experience from EY and KPMG Nigeria. Isah Yusuf Aruwa (FCA, FCIT) is the Technical Lead in the Office of the Group Managing Director at Dangote IndustriesLimited,overseeingfunctionsinfinance, reporting, audit, and general counsel. In this capacity, he vets and analyzes outputs from corporate finance and treasury teams, ensures adherence to internal policies, and validates inputs used for executive decision-making. Prior to his current role, Isah built extensive experience withwell-renownedfirmsincludingEYandKPMG Nigeria, where he was involved in business strategy, tax advisory, risk management, and audit. He holds a Master of Science in Finance from Caleb University, an MBA in Marketing from Ahmadu Bello University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from the University of Maiduguri. Isah Yusuf Aruwa
CLSME 8.0 BOOTCAMP AFTER-PARTY
Join us for an exclusive after-party to network, celebrate, and connect with fellow entrepreneurs
November 8, 2025
6:00PM WAT
The Nest lounge,Yaba
Experience an evening of music, networking, and celebration with industry leaders and fellow SME enthusiasts
Reserve Your Spot*Exclusive for bootcamp attendees and special guests
Media Features
Watch some of our media features.
Caladium Lagos SME Bootcamp Documentary
Join us as we take a look back at the Caladium Lagos SME Bootcamp since its inception in 2018. This documentary showcases the transformative impact on our community members, the industries we've influenced, and many more inspiring stories.
Caladium 2024 SME Report
Ayo Bankole, the convener of the Caladium Lagos SME Bootcamp, discussed the highly talked-about Caladium Consulting 2024 Nigerian SME Report.
Empowering MSMEs: The Caladium Lagos SME Bootcamp Impact
The Caladium Lagos SME Bootcamp is driving business growth by enhancing management skills and minimizing financial risk among MSMEs.
Newsletters
Read our newsletters and stay informed on information in the SME space
What People Said
Here's a few of the testimonials we recieved from our attendees and partners from past events
I am proud of hardworking Nigerians and particularly those thriving to improve our society. I believe that building businesses will help us solve our nation's enormous job challenges. I, therefore, feel very strongly about the importance of SMEs as they provide more than 90% of jobs in most economies. I am therefore proud of you for your tireless efforts to support SMEs.
Arunma Oteh
Former Treasurer, World Bank & DG SECIt was a privilege for @safebellefoods to participate in the business pitch competition at the #ibadansmebootcamp organized by @ayobankolee and the @lagossmebootcamp team. We are honored to emerge as the first runner up and Safebelle Foods do not take this for granted to be recognized and supported in our small business.
Alice Adeyeye
Safebelle FoodsI was live at #LagosSMEbootCamp where I learnt so much about business and how to scale. I also met with people of value. I never knew @AyoBankole was that funny and thanks for putting this together sir. Coming from Akure down to Lagos was worth it!
Treasure Ibok
Partner, Agatha Sickle Cell FoundationIn the News
Caladium Lagos SME Bootcamp: Business Leaders Chart Path to SME
Sustainability in Nigeria
Business leaders have identified effective distribution channels, resilience, strategies, audacious goals and alignment with the right business network as some of the steps Nigerian SMEs must adopt to be sustainable.
Caladium SME bootcamp to boost sectoral growth
Caladium Consulting Limited has concluded plans to host the seventh edition of its SME bootcamp, aimed at boosting the growth of small businesses in Nigeria. The event, scheduled to hold on October 21, 2024, at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, is expected to bring together over 5,000 entrepreneurs, business owners, and industry experts.
Ayo Bankole Akintujoye's Caladium SME Bootcamp Unveils 7.0 Edition
Caladium Consulting Limited, a leading management consulting firm, has announced the seventh edition of its SME Bootcamp. The event, themed "Scaling New Heights: Strategies for Sustainable Growth in a Digital Age," is set to take place on October 21, 2024, at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos.
Meet our CLSME Bootcamp 7.0 Sponsors
Diamond Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
