The Lagos SMEs Export Readiness Programme empowers 253 small businesses with tools for cross-border trade under AfCFTA and international market access

The Lagos SMEs Export Readiness Programme has officially launched to equip small and medium-sized enterprises with the tools needed to expand into international markets.

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The initiative, driven by the Lagos State Government in partnership with Afreximbank and the not-for-profit organisation ImpactHER, targets 253 selected SMEs with training on export readiness under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mrs Folashade Ambrose, Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, said the launch marks a defining chapter in the state’s commitment to scaling local enterprises beyond national borders.

“Our MSMEs must evolve from local champions to continental contenders,” she said.

“This programme is the vehicle that will drive us into new markets, beyond borders, and into the centre of intra-African commerce.”

The training, which began on July 4, covers vital areas such as export documentation, trade finance, logistics, product packaging standards, digital trade, and gender-responsive strategies for women-led MSMEs.

According to organisers, the sessions are designed to demystify exporting and build the practical skills needed to thrive beyond Nigeria’s borders.

Participants will also receive mentorship following the four-week training.

The most outstanding 20 SMEs will be selected to represent Lagos at the Intra-African Trade Fair in Algiers this September, offering access to over 1.3 billion consumers.

Mr Ody Akhanoba, Director of SME Development at Afreximbank, noted that the bank’s investment in SME training will boost Africa’s global trade presence.

“We are turning on the SME’s capacity to be more competitive in the market,” he said.

Clementina Uzogor, representing ImpactHER, stressed that the six-week training is a strategic opportunity for participants to network, scale operations and tap into wider continental trade channels.

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With Lagos at the forefront of Nigeria’s commerce, the Lagos SMEs Export Readiness Programme signals a bold step towards transforming the state’s economic narrative through global trade participation.