In a bid to tackle economic challenges and boost small business growth, the Chairmen of Agege Local Government and Orile-Agege LCDA, Abdul Ganiyu Vinod Obasa and Akinola Idowu, have collaborated with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund to launch a Small and Medium Enterprise Training and Entrepreneurship Empowerment Programme.
The event, held at the Agege Local Government Multipurpose Hall, was designed to equip entrepreneurs with practical business, financial, and management skills.
Participants received training on business planning, financial literacy, and building bankable profiles to access credit facilities. They were taught strategies for effective cash flow management and how to establish productive relationships with banks. The sessions also focused on helping small business owners overcome common financial challenges and understand the funding opportunities available through LSETF.
The programme provided step-by-step guidance on applying for the Employment Trust Fund’s various SME support schemes. Facilitators explained eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and funding categories for both new and existing entrepreneurs, empowering participants to take advantage of financial assistance and expansion opportunities.
Speaking during the event, Agege LG Chairman, Abdul Ganiyu Vinod Obasa, described entrepreneurship as “the ability to identify and solve problems even in a tough economy.” He stressed the importance of innovation, discipline, savings, and business integrity in sustaining enterprise growth. According to him, financial knowledge is crucial for long-term business success and investor confidence.
The initiative, jointly supported by the two councils and LSETF, aims to strengthen the capacity of youths and small business owners in the community, enhance financial inclusion, and promote sustainable local economic development.
