First City Monument Bank (FCMB) recently trained some business owners and entrepreneurs across Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Kwara States on business growth strategies and how to access funding to bridge market gap.
The Business Empowerment, Sustainability and Training (BEST) masterclass offered practical training to entrepreneurs and business owners across the South-west. The weeklong training focused on financial management, digital marketing, business planning, and sustainable growth practices.
Some participants also received free business registration through the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), with support by the bank. “Our goal is not just to support entrepreneurs financially but to help them build sustainable, scalable businesses,” George Ogbonnaya, divisional head of business banking at FCMB, stated.
He disclosed that the programme aligns with the bank’s commitment to inclusive growth, and that the bank plans to expand the initiative to reach more entrepreneurs nationwide and provide tools beyond funding by offering education, and access to vital business infrastructure. “Since its launch in 2018, the BEST programme has trained hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs nationwide. “
Participants at the masterclasses shared testimonials on how the initiative provided a networking platform with industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, encouraging them to develop actionable plans aligned with sound business principles.
Read also: FCMB Group reports N111.9bn pre-tax profit for FY’24
Jide Olaniyi, a small business owner from Kwara State, stated that he was initially unsure what to expect. “But 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.”
Patricia Simisola, a business owner in Ogun State, stated that she gained new business skills and benefited from the free business registration support. “That was a real bonus. It gave me the push I needed to formalise my business.”
At the Ondo end of the masterclass, Ifeoma Ozoemena, shared her view on how the session directly impacted her. “I now feel more confident about growing my business,” she said. I’m glad I gave it a chance.”
