First City Monument Bank has trained entrepreneurs through its Business Empowerment, Sustainability and Training Masterclass, which participants have credited with transforming their business operations and mindset.

FCMB concluded the programme’s last phase in March, training participants in Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Kwara states.

According to a statement, the BEST sessions focused on financial literacy, digital marketing, business planning, and sustainable growth practices.

FCMB said that small business owners reported that the initiative delivered more value than anticipated.

A Kwara-based entrepreneur, Jide Olaniyi, affirmed that the training improved how he runs his business, stating, “I left with a deeper understanding of how to structure my business and apply digital tools. I’m already seeing the difference in how I operate.”

A participant in Ogun State, Patricia Simisola, described the free business registration facilitated by the Corporate Affairs Commission through FCMB as a turning point. “That was a real bonus. It gave me the push I needed to formalise my business,” she remarked.

The sessions also fostered networking and peer-to-peer learning. A participant in Oyo State, Dolapo Olayiwola, hailed the masterclass for changing her outlook, noting, “It changed how I approach decision-making in my business. I now have a clearer idea of how to grow without losing focus.”

Further, a participant from Ondo State, Ifeoma Ozoemena, said the programme gave her the confidence to scale. “I now feel more confident about growing my business.

I’m glad I gave it a chance,” Ozoemena noted.

Meanwhile, FCMB’s Divisional Head of Business Banking, George Ogbonnaya, said the initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to inclusive growth.

“Our goal is not just to support entrepreneurs financially but to help them build sustainable, scalable businesses,” Ogbonnaya explained.

Participants engaged in workshops and networking sessions facilitated by industry professionals and seasoned entrepreneurs.

The curriculum included financial management, operational efficiency, strategic planning, and digital marketing.

According to FCMB, the BEST programme has trained hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs across Nigeria since its inception in 2018.

The bank disclosed that it plans to extend the initiative to more states to provide funding, education, mentorship, and access to critical business infrastructure.