Lagos: The Nigerians in Diaspora Chamber of Commerce (NiDCC) has partnered five indigenous entrepreneurs to empower them through structured training, mentorship, and financial support. The Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Patience Ndidi Key, disclosed this at the maiden NiDCC Business Summit held in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the summit was themed ‘The People, The Business and the Future of Emerging Markets.’ Key stated that the entrepreneurs were selected from a pitching session and would be supported to strengthen their ideas and improve long-term sustainability. She explained that the chamber’s intervention would focus on capacity building, access to funding, and structured mentorship.
Key mentioned that some beneficiaries would receive training in communication skills and effective business presentation. ‘NiDCC plans to provide leadership training, skills development, technology support, and global exposure for beneficiaries. We will be using the money of the rich to better the lives of the poor,’ she said.
She further highlighted that limited funding and poor access to enabling business environments were major barriers to business growth in Nigeria. ‘We are ready to work with local entrepreneurs to encourage continued innovation and creativity,’ she added.
Key emphasized that the entrepreneurs’ determination to start and grow businesses despite limited resources was a driving force behind the initiative. She described the partnership as a significant achievement, expressing optimism about its positive impact on future generations.
The Lagos event marked the official launch of the NiDCC Business Summit, which would now be held annually. Key stressed the importance of hosting the summit in Nigeria, as national development required direct engagement with local entrepreneurs. She reiterated that entrepreneurs were the engine of growth and must drive Nigeria’s and Africa’s development.
She concluded by saying that the initiative aligned with the chamber’s strategy to build sustainable businesses, strengthen the economy, and improve livelihoods. Olawale Atoyebi, founder of Bordawave Ltd., also expressed gratitude for the opportunity and pledged to maximize the support. Other beneficiaries include Williams Otito-Daniels, Esther Iniebong, and Jumoke Akin-Taylor.