Keystone Bank Limited has strengthened its commitment to the growth of Nigeria’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through a partnership with the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KACCIMA) to train and support leather industry operators in Kano State.

The initiative, implemented under the Keystone–Kano SME Leather Support Programme, brought together leather entrepreneurs for a three-day capacity-building programme aimed at improving business skills, increasing productivity, expanding market access and promoting innovation across the leather value chain.

According to a statement issued by the bank, the programme forms part of its broader strategy to promote entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and sustainable economic development by supporting businesses operating in key sectors of the Nigerian economy.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Executive Director, North and Public Sector, Keystone Bank Limited, Usman Bello Abubakar, described the collaboration with KACCIMA as a strategic intervention designed to equip leather entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge and financial support required to build resilient and competitive businesses.

He noted that Kano remains Nigeria’s largest leather production hub and one of the leading centres for leather processing in West Africa, providing employment for more than 40,000 people, most of whom operate within the SME and informal sectors.

“As you know, Kano State is widely recognised as Nigeria’s largest leather production hub in West Africa, providing employment for over 40,000 workers, largely within the SME and informal sectors.

“At Keystone Bank, we are constantly exploring innovative ways to support our customers and empower businesses. This initiative is designed to address key gaps in capacity development, access to finance and market integration within the leather ecosystem.

“Through this collaboration, we are supporting efforts to deepen financial inclusion, drive value chain development and position local businesses for increased participation in regional and international markets,” Abubakar said.

He encouraged participants to leverage the knowledge, business networks and opportunities gained during the programme to strengthen their enterprises and improve their competitiveness, while reaffirming the bank’s commitment to supporting SMEs through innovative financial solutions, capacity-building initiatives and strategic partnerships that stimulate job creation and economic growth.

Participants received intensive business masterclasses and practical training tailored specifically to the needs of leather industry operators. The sessions covered business development, enterprise management, market access and value addition, equipping entrepreneurs with practical tools to scale their businesses.

As part of the programme, 50 SMEs received grants of ₦50,000 each to support business expansion and operational growth.

The initiative also featured a mini trade fair and exhibition, providing participants with an opportunity to showcase their products, improve brand visibility, connect with prospective customers and explore new market opportunities.

Organisers said the programme also encouraged business formalisation, promoted financial inclusion and strengthened collaboration among stakeholders across the leather value chain.

The partnership underscores Keystone Bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, strengthening local industries and creating sustainable economic opportunities through strategic collaborations with public and private sector institutions.

With initiatives such as the Keystone–Kano SME Leather Support Programme, the bank says it remains focused on empowering SMEs, enhancing value chain development and contributing to Nigeria’s broader economic diversification agenda.