On August 5, 2024, Wema Bank, Nigeria’s innovative financial institution and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, launched the Ekiti-Wema MSME Empowerment Programme in collaboration with the Ekiti State Government. The initiative, conducted through the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, aims to train and empower 100,000 youth and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Ekiti State.
The Ekiti-Wema MSME Empowerment Programme is designed to provide participants with essential skills in business management, digital empowerment, and financial management. Through a combination of virtual and physical training sessions, participants will gain valuable knowledge and receive mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs. Additionally, the program offers access to market opportunities and financial assistance, ensuring that participants can apply their new skills and expand their operations.
Wema Bank’s Executive Director of Retail and Digital Business, Tunde Mabawonku, emphasized the bank’s commitment to fostering growth and success for Nigerians. He encouraged youth and businesses in Ekiti State to seize this opportunity to enhance their skills and thrive in today’s competitive market. “Our approach is granular yet comprehensive, bringing tailored solutions for growth to the youth and businesses of Ekiti State right within their vicinity. We hope that through this initiative, Ekiti State will become a hub of productivity and economic buoyance,” Mabawonku said.
Otunba Kayode Fasae, the Honourable Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment in Ekiti State, highlighted the program’s dual focus on skill development and financial support. He praised Wema Bank’s continued partnership with the state government, noting the bank’s previous collaboration in 2020 to train 2,500 youth under the Central Bank of Nigeria’s AgriBusiness Small Medium Enterprise Investment Scheme (AGSMEIS). “We reiterate our unwavering commitment to maximise the deliverables of this Programme to serve as a veritable intervention platform for skill development and a panacea for employment and wealth creation,” Fasae stated.
Wema Bank continues to expand its network and collaborate with various stakeholders to provide viable solutions for Nigerians. The Ekiti-Wema MSME Empowerment Programme is expected to transform the lives and businesses of 100,000 participants, contributing significantly to the economic development of Ekiti State.
Interested youth and businesses in Ekiti State are encouraged to register for the program by visiting [https://wema-ekitisme.alat.ng/register](https://wema-ekitisme.alat.ng/register).