BACCIMA Training Targets MSMEs’ Readiness for Regional, International Markets
BADAGRY, Lagos — The Badagry Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (BACCIMA) has trained entrepreneurs on business formalisation, regulatory compliance and export readiness as part of efforts to prepare local enterprises for wider domestic and international markets.
The two-day “Beyond Borders 1.0” business training programme, held from September 15 to 16 in Badagry, brought together entrepreneurs for practical sessions on digital visibility, business documentation, customs procedures, product regulation, data protection and access to finance.
The programme focused on helping small businesses move beyond informal operations and develop the systems required to compete in larger markets.
One of the key sessions addressed export and cross-border trade, with Assistant Comptroller of Customs J.K. Iroegbu of the Nigeria Customs Service taking participants through HS Code Classification, duties, taxes and other requirements associated with international trade.
Participants were also briefed on product registration and regulatory requirements by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), while a session on business formalisation and financial records highlighted the importance of proper documentation for enterprises seeking funding and market opportunities.
BACCIMA also introduced participants to opportunities for improving their digital presence and making their businesses more visible to potential customers.
The focus on cross-border trade is particularly relevant to Badagry, given the city’s strategic position along the Nigeria-Benin corridor.
BACCIMA has previously participated in engagements with the Nigeria Export Promotion Council, NACCIMA and other stakeholders on strengthening export opportunities and addressing challenges affecting businesses operating along the corridor.
The chamber said the Beyond Borders programme was designed to equip entrepreneurs with practical knowledge required to build businesses that are “visible, tradable and fundable.”
The initiative reflects a wider challenge facing Nigerian small and medium-sized enterprises: moving from simply establishing businesses to developing enterprises capable of meeting regulatory requirements, accessing finance and competing beyond their immediate local markets.
BACCIMA said 21 participants attended the first day of the programme, while 26 participated on the second day.
The chamber said it would continue to support capacity building and initiatives aimed at strengthening businesses across Badagry Division.
Source: BACCIMA
