The Ogun State Government, in collaboration with GFA Technologies, has introduced the Gateway Skills Programme to train and empower at least one million entrepreneurs. Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Adebola Sofela, announced this initiative during a virtual stakeholders’ meeting on MSMEs, highlighting its focus on equipping small businesses, students, youths, and women with critical digital skills, business tools, and market access.
Sofela emphasized that the programme aligns with the state’s broader economic development strategy by fostering business expansion, strengthening market linkages, and enhancing financial accessibility. Additionally, Governor Dapo Abiodun has approved the Small-scale Industries Land Acquisition Scheme at the SME Industrial Park in Ijebu-Isiwo, aimed at creating a supportive environment for entrepreneurs.
The government is also implementing the Ogun Light Up project, a 30MW power initiative in Abeokuta, to support businesses with improved electricity access. Furthermore, it is working with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria to establish an MSME Council to enhance support for small businesses.
GFA Technologies’ co-founder, Emmanuel Oke, described the Gateway Skills Programme as a flexible training model designed to help participants formalize their businesses and access business-friendly loans. He encouraged interested entrepreneurs to take advantage of the opportunity by registering for the programme.
Representing GOPA, Senior Business Development Expert Lawal Ismael explained that the programme integrates the Inspire, Create, Start, and Scale framework, developed in partnership with GIZ-Sedin. This model assists entrepreneurs in identifying business opportunities, scaling their ventures, and receiving post-training support.
Additionally, Ogun State Skills Fund Coordinator, Segun Fatoki, disclosed plans to establish a State Job Centre, which will connect job seekers with potential employers and offer shared workspaces equipped with rentable business tools.
Reacting to these developments, Dr. Femi Egbesola, President of the Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria, urged the government to increase its patronage of locally manufactured goods. He also called for efforts to help businesses capitalize on opportunities provided by the African Continental Free Trade Area.
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