Simply Exponential Consult Limited has launched a rollout of the International Labour Organization's Start and Improve Your Business (ILO SIYB) Train-Trainer (TOT) Programme across Lagos and Abuja.
The firm's Founder and Managing Partner, Morounfayo Williams who is an ILO-certified master trainer stated this during a press conference in Lagos, adding the initiative was designed to build the capacity of professionals who support entrepreneurs and small businesses across Nigeria.
"It is a two-week hybrid certification initiative," she said.
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She said the ILO SIYB programme, deployed in more than 90 countries, provides practical, standardized training packages that help aspiring entrepreneurs generate viable business ideas, start formal enterprises, and improve existing businesses.
She added that Simply Exponential Consult will deliver the TOT course from 21 September to 5 October, followed by a 30-day implementation and mentoring phase during which trainees step down training to others and are observed and supported prior to certification.
Key features of the programme are three core training packages: Generate Your Business Idea (GYBI), Start Your Business (SYB), and Improve Your Business (IYB) and hands-on learning tools including a business simulation game, role plays, "life cards," record-keeping exercises, and 12 participant manuals covering business planning, marketing, adult learning, and trainer guides.
Others are a two-week intensive classroom/hybrid phase plus a 30-day implementation and supervision period to ensure quality and a multiplier effect and certification will be awarded only after successful step-down training and observation, ensuring trainers meet international standards.
She said the TOT is targeted at business development service providers, SME Desk Officers of Financial Institutions, managers of enterprise development organizations and microfinance institutions, trainers passionate about entrepreneurship education, and others supporting SMEs.
She described the TOT as an opportunity to create a multiplier effect of certified trainers who will deliver standardized, practical business support across the country.
"The programme equips trainers with methodologies to help entrepreneurs separate personal and business finances, prepare viable business plans, and build sustainable enterprises," she said.
Director-General of Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA), Mr. Adewale-Smart Oyerinde affirmed private-sector support for initiatives that strengthen small businesses, create jobs, and contribute to national prosperity.
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The Director-General who was represented by Adenike Adebayo-Ajala emphasized that structured business training, covering costing, record keeping, access to finance and market linkages, is essential for business survival and growth in Nigeria's challenging economy.
