Ogun State Government has entered into a partnership with a German agency, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), to train 10,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), to help them start and expand their businesses, as well as attract investments.

Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Kikelomo Longe made this known in Abeokuta, during a meeting with the agency and MSMEs, themed "Funding Opportunities for MSMEs in Ogun State", saying the Ministry is collaborating with different development partners including GIZ, to ensure actualisation of the government’s objective in helping entrepreneurs start and grow sustainable businesses.

Longe added that the present administration is also facilitating access to capital for MSMEs, stating that the Ogun State Agricultural Multipurpose Credit Agency (OSAMCA) had been reconstituted to provide funds for small businesses, while the Bank of Industry BOI-OGSG Matching Fund had also been a source of capital for small businesses in the State.

She said the Ministry had commenced the distribution of over 2,000 free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) certificates to beneficiaries of the formalisation Programme under the Survival Fund Scheme.

On his part, a capacity development expert of the German agency, Mr. Victor Obaletin stated that the training would commence with the first batch of 2,500 participants selected from the MSMEs Business Clinic which was held across the State, to help them acquire relevant skills to overcome challenges.

Some participants at the event, Shakirudeen Taiwo and Modupeoluwa Victor lauded the arrangement between the government and GIZ, expressing optimism that the training would have a positive impact in helping MSMEs in the State.