In line with the drive of the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration to build a more vibrant Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sub-sector and encourage entrepreneurship, the Ogun State Government has signed an agreement with the German Agency for Development, GIZ to train 3,500 entrepreneurs on creating and growing sustainable businesses. 

A statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Industry, Trade and Investment, Chief Remi Ogunmefun, revealed that the training would be implemented through the OGSG-GIZ Entrepreneurship Development Training Programme, aimed at empowering entrepreneurs with the requisite skills.

Ogunmefun said this would further make them overcome challenges inhibiting MSMEs, as well as build their capacity to enable them access market, build value chain linkages, prepare their businesses for funding and help the participants run their businesses sustainably.

He said, ‘’the training which is being handled by GIZ accredited Consultant, GOPA Worldwide is open to categories of entrepreneurs in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Agriculture-Cassava Processing/ Distribution/Marketing, Food and Beverages, Fashion, Textiles and Beauty Care sectors".

The Governor’s Aide noted that the move was in line with the commitment of the present administration towards the development of MSME sub-sector, adding that 1,072 entrepreneurs earlier shortlisted through the first batch of applications for the OGSG-GIZ Entrepreneurship Development Programme were currently undergoing training on entrepreneurship, while the second batch of application for the training programme had commenced via https://msme.ogunstate.gov.ng.

According to the Special Adviser, "The portal has been reopened for the second batch, calling for applications to enable as many eligible entrepreneurs as possible to take advantage of this window to be part of the remaining 2,500 entrepreneurs that will be trained between November 2022 and January 2023’’.

 He enjoined those who needed further information on the programme to call 08033762594 or 08057033027 or email ogunmsme@ogunstate.

Reacting to the development,  the President, Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria (ASBON), Dr. Femi Egbesola lauded the present administration and GIZ for committing to train 3,500 participants to grow the entrepreneurship sector.