Committed to the development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the Ogun State government says it will continue to prioritise capacity building for all categories of entrepreneurs in order to boost their businesses and encourage more youths to embrace entrepreneurship.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olu. Ola. Aikulola made this known in Abeokuta, during the closing ceremony and graduation of 165 indigenes trained and empowered with start-up packs in Tailoring and Fashion Design, Solar Power Installation, Hair Dressing and Beauty Care of the National Industrial Skills Development Programme (NISDP), organised by Industrial Training Fund (ITF),Abeokuta Area Office

Dr. Aikulola highlighted the importance of capacity building for youths and intending entrepreneurs, adding that it would aid the country in its efforts towards diversification from dependence on oil, tackle unemployment as well as social vices and idleness among youths, and assured that the government remains focused on training youths and providing necessary support as part of efforts to encourage entrepreneurship.

" As a government, we are also keen on identifying gaps and taking measures on such. The present administration understands the importance of Entrepreneurial Development, Skill Acquisition, Capacity Building and Empowerment purposely for employment creation, thereby curbing insecurity and social vices in our society, so we will continue to prioritise capacity building programs for our entrepreneurs across all stages of their businesses".

Lauding the ITF for the training and empowerment programme, Aikulola urged the graduands to make the best use of the training and start-up packs given to them to start their businesses and grow to become employers of labour.

In her welcome address, the Area Manager, ITF Abeokuta Office, Mrs. Bolanle Ajibade said the NISDP was organised in the State to equip indigenes with requisite and hands-on skills for livelihood, adding that the programme would support the efforts of the Dapo Abiodun-led administration on youth empowerment, promote employability and boost entrepreneurship.