Comfort Ekeleme, Business Editor
ProvidusUnity Bank has graduated over 100 entrepreneurs from the sixth cohort of its Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) Development programme, reaffirming its commitment to building a thriving small business ecosystem that supports economic growth, innovation, and job creation across Nigeria.
The three-month capacity-building programme, organized in partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University, brought together SME owners from Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.
Participants received practical training in business strategy, financial management, operations, governance, and growth planning, equipping them with the skills required to build resilient and sustainable enterprises.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony held in Lagos, Head of Business Development at ProvidusUnity Bank, Ernest Elue said the initiative was designed to address the capacity gaps that often constrain the growth of SMEs and limit their contribution to national development.
He said, “For us, this programme goes beyond training entrepreneurs. It is about building an ecosystem where small businesses can access the knowledge, networks, and support required to achieve long-term sustainability and growth. SMEs remain the backbone of the Nigerian economy, and investing in their success is an investment in the country’s future.
“Over the years, we have remained committed to supporting entrepreneurs with the tools and capabilities needed to scale their businesses.
“Through our partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre, we are helping to nurture resilient enterprises that create jobs, stimulate innovation, and contribute meaningfully to economic prosperity,” he said.
As part of efforts to enhance the impact of the programme, the Bank also partnered with Mentor Intro Africa, a leading mentorship platform, to provide participants with access to experienced business leaders and industry professionals.
Through the partnership, entrepreneurs received tailored mentorship, practical guidance, and valuable insights to help navigate business challenges, refine growth strategies, and strengthen the long-term sustainability of their enterprises.
The initiative complemented the programme’s technical training by connecting participants to a network of mentors committed to supporting the growth and success of emerging businesses.
Participants described the programme as a transformative experience that provided practical solutions to real business challenges and strengthened their capacity for growth.
Ukponi Bahan, Founder of Danny Palm Oil, said the programme provided valuable insights that would support the company’s next phase of expansion.
“The training challenged us to think differently about our business and sharpen our growth strategy. The sessions on operations, planning, and sustainability were particularly valuable as we prepare for future growth.”
Similarly, Ebitoru Orwell-Brown, Founder of Angie’s Ice Cream and Pastries, said the programme helped strengthen the foundation of the business.
“The knowledge, mentorship, and business structuring modules were invaluable. The programme gave us greater clarity on our growth plans and the confidence to pursue new opportunities.”
Tunde Onakoya, Managing Director of Autoclinic NG Solutions Ltd, noted that the programme had enhanced the company’s operations and opened new avenues for collaboration.
“The programme helped us rethink our business structure, operations, and growth strategy. The insights gained from facilitators and fellow entrepreneurs will continue to benefit our business in the years ahead.”
The ProvidusUnity Bank SME Development Programme is a flagship entrepreneurship initiative delivered in partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University.
Designed to strengthen the capacity of small and medium-sized enterprises, the programme provides entrepreneurs with practical business training, mentorship, and growth support to help them build sustainable and competitive businesses.
Since its inception, the initiative has empowered hundreds of entrepreneurs across Nigeria, reflecting ProvidusUnity Bank’s commitment to fostering innovation, creating jobs, advancing financial inclusion, and contributing to long-term economic development.
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