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LCCI urges entrepreneurs on nation building

The graduating entrepreneurs from the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) have been tasked by the organisation to use their technical expertise and tenacity to forge strong communities and support Nigeria's sustainable development.

The charge was issued to the 117 graduates by the LCCI President, Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, during the 10th edition of the organisation’s “Entrepreneurship Mentoring Program” (EMP) graduation ceremony, held yesterday in Lagos.

In addition to graduating about 600 mentees who are excelling in a variety of fields and making significant economic contributions to the country, the president said the LCCI has over the years made great strides to maintain the programme as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

He mentioned the existence of boundless opportunities for businesses and individuals despite the country's economic challenges.

He said: “Looking at the future, one of your key responsibilities is to not only practice your new skills but also to be role models to other youth who may follow in your footsteps.

“To our dear graduands, I offer my heartfelt congratulations on this special day. Your hard work, determination, and perseverance have paid off, and you have earned lifelong knowledge and skills.

 “As you graduate today and embark on the next phase of your journey, I encourage you to embrace new challenges and meet them with strength and courage.

“Remember that the skills and knowledge you have gained at LCCI are valuable assets that will serve you well in all areas of your life and I urge you to use the knowledge and skills you have gained to make a lasting positive impact on the people around you”.

As MSMEs, the LCCI’s Vice President, Mojisola Bakare admonished the graduating entrepreneurs to seize the chances provided by their platform to achieve greatness and support Nigeria's economic development.

To stay relevant and sustainable, she also urged them to keep reinventing themselves.

“You must be innovative and continually thirst for knowledge and ensure you use social media to enhance your business and lives and look for businesses and people you can support,” Bakare stated.

EMP is a CSR initiative established in 2013, which aims to empower Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) through workshops, exhibitions, business tours, and mentoring.