The Nigerians in Diaspora Chamber of Commerce has partnered with five indigenous entrepreneurs to empower them through structured training, mentorship and financial support.

NiDCC’s chief executive, Patience Ndidi Key, disclosed this on Tuesday at the maiden NiDCC Business Summit held in Lagos.

Ms Key said the entrepreneurs emerged from a pitching session and would be supported to strengthen their ideas and improve long-term sustainability. She explained that the chamber’s intervention would focus on capacity building, access to funding and structured mentorship.

According to her, some beneficiaries would also receive training in communication skills and effective business presentation.

“NiDCC plans to provide leadership training, skills development, technology support and global exposure for beneficiaries. We will be using the money of the rich to better the lives of the poor,” Ms Key said.

She said limited funding and poor access to enabling business environments were major barriers to business growth in Nigeria.

“We are ready to work with local entrepreneurs to encourage continued innovation and creativity,” she said.

Ms Key noted that the entrepreneurs’ willingness to start and grow businesses despite limited resources motivated the initiative. She described the partnership as a dream come true, adding that it would have a positive impact on future generations.

Ms Key said the Lagos event marked the official launch of the NiDCC Business Summit, which would now hold annually. She stressed that hosting the summit in Nigeria was vital, as national development required direct engagement with local entrepreneurs.

Ms Key reiterated that entrepreneurs were the engine of growth and must drive Nigeria’s and Africa’s development. She said the initiative aligned with the chamber’s strategy to build sustainable businesses, strengthen the economy and improve livelihoods.

 (NAN)