A new initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of professionals supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in Nigeria has been launched by Simply Exponential Consult Limited, with the firm rolling out the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) Train-the-Trainer (TOT) Programme in Lagos and Abuja.
The initiative is designed to create a network of qualified business trainers capable of providing entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with practical, standardised support aligned with international best practices.
The Founder and Managing Partner of Simply Exponential Consult Limited and ILO-certified master trainer, Morounfayo Williams, disclosed this during a press conference in Lagos.
Williams said the programme would provide professionals working with entrepreneurs and SMEs with the knowledge, tools and methodologies required to effectively train business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.
“It is a two-week hybrid certification initiative,” she said.
According to her, the ILO SIYB programme has been deployed in more than 90 countries, providing practical and standardised training packages designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs develop viable business ideas, establish formal enterprises and improve existing businesses.
She said Simply Exponential Consult would conduct the Train-the-Trainer course from September 21 to October 5, followed by a 30-day implementation and mentoring phase.
During the implementation period, participants will be expected to step down the knowledge acquired during the training by delivering sessions to other beneficiaries. Their performance will be observed, assessed and supported before they can receive final certification.
Williams explained that the structure was deliberately designed to ensure that participants do not merely complete classroom training but demonstrate their ability to apply the methodologies effectively in real-world business support settings.
The programme features three core training packages: Generate Your Business Idea (GYBI), Start Your Business (SYB), and Improve Your Business (IYB).
Participants will also be exposed to hands-on learning techniques, including a business simulation game, role plays, “life cards” and record-keeping exercises.
The training package comprises 12 participant manuals covering areas such as business planning, marketing, adult learning and trainer guidance.
Williams said the intensive two-week classroom and hybrid phase would be complemented by the 30-day implementation and supervision period to ensure quality, consistency and a multiplier effect.
She added that certification would only be awarded to participants who successfully complete the step-down training and observation process, thereby ensuring that trainers meet the required international standards.
The initiative is targeted at a broad range of professionals involved in enterprise development, including business development service providers, SME Desk Officers of financial institutions, managers of enterprise development organisations and microfinance institutions, as well as trainers with a strong interest in entrepreneurship education.
Williams said the initiative would help address the need for more qualified professionals who can provide practical and structured support to businesses across Nigeria.
She described the programme as an opportunity to create a multiplier effect through a growing network of certified trainers who would subsequently deliver standardised business development support to entrepreneurs across the country.
“The programme equips trainers with methodologies to help entrepreneurs separate personal and business finances, prepare viable business plans, and build sustainable enterprises,” she said.
The Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Mr Adewale-Smart Oyerinde, also expressed support for initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s small business ecosystem.
Oyerinde, who was represented at the event by Adenike Adebayo-Ajala, affirmed the private sector’s support for programmes that build the capacity of small businesses, promote job creation and contribute to national economic development.
He stressed the importance of structured business training in helping enterprises survive and grow, particularly amid the difficult operating environment facing businesses in Nigeria.
According to him, entrepreneurs require practical knowledge in areas including costing, record keeping, access to finance and market linkages to improve their chances of survival and achieve sustainable growth.
The initiative comes at a time when SMEs continue to play a critical role in Nigeria’s economy, while many businesses face challenges relating to financial management, access to markets, business planning and the availability of appropriate business development support.
Through the ILO SIYB Train-the-Trainer programme, Simply Exponential Consult Limited seeks to strengthen the professionals working at the frontline of SME development and expand access to internationally recognised entrepreneurship training methodologies across Nigeria.