In the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, how does one keep pace? From March 12 to 21, 2025, an innovative initiative unfolded, spotlighting essential facets like financial management, digital marketing, business planning, and advocating sustainable growth practices. Additionally, some participants were fortunate to receive complimentary business registration, courtesy of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), with support from the bank.
The transformative power of this training session came as a surprise to many attendees. Jide Olaniyi, an enterprising small business proprietor from Kwara State, candidly shared his initial skepticism. “I walked in unsure, not knowing exactly what to anticipate. But I emerged with a newfound clarity on structuring my business and leveraging digital tools. The change in my operations is palpable,” Jide remarked, his eyes reflecting a renewed sense of direction.
In the neighboring state of Ogun, Patricia Simisola’s narrative echoed similar sentiments. Discovering new business acumen and accessing the complimentary business registration was a game-changer for her. “That,” she enthused, “was an unexpected boon. It spurred me to formalize my business ambitiously.”
Peer interaction proved pivotal as well, as participants shared mutual experiences and insights. Dolapo Olayiwola from Oyo State reflected, “The exchange of ideas reshaped my business worldview. Decision-making has assumed a more strategic dimension, allowing for growth that remains focused.”
Amidst the enthusiastic voices stood George Ogbonnaya, FCMB’s Divisional Head of Business Banking. He expressed the program’s alignment with the bank’s vision for inclusive economic advancement. “Supporting entrepreneurs goes beyond financial aid,” he articulated, “it’s about forging businesses that are sustainable and scalable for the future.”
Tracing back to its genesis in 2018, the BEST program has been a crucible for entrepreneurial knowledge, having trained an impressive multitude nationwide. FCMB envisions expanding this impactful program, aiming to empower more entrepreneurs across the country, transcending mere financial support by integrating education, mentorship, and access to pivotal business infrastructure.
The personal testimonies of participants, like that of Ifeoma Ozoemena from the Ondo State session, serve as the program’s greatest endorsements. “I now harbor an invigorated confidence in scaling my business,” she shared, beaming with optimism. “Giving this a shot was indeed the right decision.”
The Business Empowerment, Sustainability, and Training Masterclass centered around tangible, pragmatic knowledge. Topics of paramount importance such as financial literacy, digital marketing, precise financial management, strategic marketing practices, operational efficiencies, sustainable business methodologies, and sound strategic planning were meticulously imparted. Workshops and interactive networking sessions were helmed by industry stalwarts and successful entrepreneurs, propelling participants to concoct actionable strategies rooted in rock-solid business principles.
As the sessions drew to a close, they left behind an indelible mark — a narrative woven with aspirations, newfound knowledge, and robust networks. The undeniable question remains: How will these insights propel the participants’ entrepreneurial journeys forward? Only time will answer.
