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Ecobank Nigeria and Lagos State Employment Trust Fund Partner to Empower MSMEs

Ecobank Nigeria, a leading pan-African banking group subsidiary, has partnered with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Lagos.

The collaboration aims to strengthen small businesses, promote entrepreneurship, and boost job creation through capacity building, market access, and enterprise development initiatives.

The partnership will provide MSMEs with access to business advisory support, digital tools, networking platforms, and new market opportunities, including cross-border trade linkages via the Ecobank Single Market Trade Hub.

The engagement will also leverage SME events, targeted training programs, and knowledge-sharing sessions to help Lagos-based entrepreneurs build structure, improve governance, and scale sustainably.

Omoboye Odu, Head of SME Banking at Ecobank Nigeria, said, “MSMEs are the engine of our economy, but many require structure, skills, and market access to truly thrive. Our focus is to equip entrepreneurs with the right knowledge, networks, platforms, and digital solutions that help them grow sustainably.”

Oyeronke Ibidapo-Obe, Head of Agency Banking and Third-Party Partnerships at Ecobank, added, “This partnership creates a solid framework for enterprise development in Lagos.

“By combining capacity building, mentoring, digital enablement, and market access, we are laying the foundation for scalable businesses that can compete locally and internationally.”

Feyisayo Alayande, Executive Secretary/CEO of LSETF, expressed optimism about the collaboration, noting that it will support the Fund’s mission to enable Lagos residents to become economically active and self-sufficient.

“This partnership is another step forward in our commitment to enabling small businesses in Lagos to reach their full potential,” Alayande said.

Ecobank Nigeria is a member of the Ecobank Group, a leading pan-African banking group operating in 33 African countries.

The bank provides affordable, accessible, and instant banking services, strategically positioned to support Pan-African trade.

The Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) is a government agency established to foster job creation and entrepreneurship in Lagos State.

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