NGO helps entrepreneurs with training, funds

As part of efforts aimed at improving the quality of life of Nigerians, members of the Bridging Gap Empowerment Network have supported over 100 entrepreneurs with training and funds to kick-start their businesses.

Chairman, Board of Trustees of Bridging Gap Empowerment Network, Dr Isaac Etinah Adanikeh, who spoke during the economic empowerment programme held at the premises of the Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Ikorodu, Lagos, urged entrepreneurs to leverage the power of collaboration.

He said: “Don’t compete. Grow at your own pace; Life is not about competition but collaboration. You must also network, don’t walk alone. Every programme is an opportunity for you to meet new people. You must be in business to create value.”

Also, Managing Director (MD)/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Okitipupa Oil Palm Plc., Taiwo Adewole, who urged the entrepreneurs to return to agriculture, said: “Many of us need to leave Lagos and return to our states. Our states can produce the food that can feed the entire country. We must produce what we consume.”

General Manager, Human Resources, PZ Cussons Plc., Dr Wilson Alegun, advised business owners to make sacrifices and come out of school with grades they could be proud of. He further stressed the need for entrepreneurs to develop soft skills and identify what they are passionate about.

Meanwhile, Lagos Regional Head, Bank of Industry (BoI) Obaro Osah, urged the entrepreneurs to document their ideas to promote continuity, adding that there is the need to read widely and ask questions.

Osah also identified three ways entrepreneurs can raise money, such as grants, equity and debt funding. There was also free medical support to participants, widows and physically challenged people.