First City Monument Bank has equipped 44,278 entrepreneurs with the essential skills and capabilities to scale and sustain their businesses for long-term success since 2018.
According to a statement from the financial institution on Wednesday, the training and empowerment is taking place through its Business Empowerment Sustainability and Training masterclass programme, which takes place nationwide.
FCMB has contributed to small and medium enterprise empowerment in Nigeria, offering a variety of financial and non-financial support through different initiatives, including those that focused on women-owned businesses.
Commenting on the initiative, Managing Director of FCMB, Yemisi Edun, said, “We are building sustainable business success in Nigerian communities by closing entrepreneurial gaps. This will drive innovation, growth, competitiveness, job creation, and long-term economic health.
“Investing in entrepreneurial talent is an investment in Nigeria’s future, strengthening the private sector’s capacity to drive national economic progress.”
Divisional Head and Senior Vice President of Business Banking at FCMB, George Ogbonnaya, highlighted the bank’s dedication to empowering SMEs, saying,
“Our BEST masterclass is a strategic intervention, providing SMEs with the essential skills and resources to navigate and excel in a dynamic market. We are bridging the capacity gap, opening market access, and intend to deliver tailored financial solutions that will empower entrepreneurs in Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Kwara, and Ondo states to achieve lasting prosperity.”
In recent weeks, the initiative has been done in Southeast, South-South, and parts of Northern Nigeria, and the next phase was to commence on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, and run through March 21, 2025, in Ogun, Oyo, Kwara, Osun, and Ondo States.
Start-ups and business owners will undergo comprehensive training sessions on critical aspects of business management. The masterclass, which includes interactive workshops, will be facilitated by seasoned industry experts and accomplished business leaders. It will also provide participants with networking opportunities and mentorship.
The masterclass covers financial literacy, digital marketing, operational optimisation, sustainable business practices, and strategic planning, equipping participants with the necessary competencies to stay competitive.
