The Lagos state government in collaboration with Afreximbank and ImpactHER has begun six-week training for about 253 SMEs towards driving export promotion in the state.
Out of the 253 participants, 20 exceptional SMEs are to be selected after the training to participate in the Intra Africa Trade Fair, IATF in Algiers, Algeria, slated for September, 2025.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Export Readiness Training Programme organized by the ministry in partnership with Afreximbank and ImpactHER held at Alausa, Ikeja, the Lagos Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs Folashade Ambrose said the whole essence is to widen the scope of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, MSMEs in the State and acknowledge the sector as a powerful tool for economic democratisation.
Ambrose described the opportunity as a gateway for SMEs for over 1.3 billion consumers, adding it is a chance to engage buyers, investors, partners, and policy influencers from across Africa.
“It is a bold step towards transforming Lagos-based businesses into globally competitive exporters, building wealth, creating jobs, and amplifying the economic prosperity of our great State and Nigeria at large.
“The concept of export readiness is not just a trending term; it is an economic imperative. In an era marked by regional integration and the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), we cannot afford to keep our vibrant enterprises confined to domestic markets. Our MSMEs must evolve from local champions to continental contenders.
“Nigeria, and Lagos State in particular, has long been regarded as the economic engine of West Africa. But being an engine is not enough if we are not propelling forward. This programme is the vehicle that will drive us into new markets, beyond borders, and into the centre of intra-African commerce.” she said .
While appreciating Afrexim Bank and ImpactHER for the partnership, the Commissioner noted that the partnership aligned with the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Development Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, particularly as it pertains to Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy and Driving Inclusive Economic Growth.