LCCI advocates investment in entrepreneurs for economic growth

By Merit Ibe

The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has said sustained investment in people is essential for lasting economic growth.

It reaffirmed its commitment to entrepreneurship, innovation and the development of future business leaders.

Director-General of the chamber, Dr Chinyere Almona, stated this at the 2026 LCCI Entrepreneurship Mentoring Business Clinic, Exhibition and Providus Bank Day.

Speaking on the theme, ‘Building to Last: Scaling Resilient Businesses in a VUCA Economy’, she said the chamber remained committed to creating practical pathways that enable businesses to emerge, grow and thrive.

She said the entrepreneurship mentoring programme, which began 13 years ago with 22 aspiring entrepreneurs, has now mentored more than 900 entrepreneurs, many of whom have built successful businesses and created jobs.

Describing the event as more than an exhibition, Almona said it provided opportunities for participants to showcase innovations, build partnerships and engage regulators as well as  business-support institutions.

She urged entrepreneurs to remain resilient, credible and committed to continuous learning.

Also speaking, Head of Business Education Services and Training, Mrs Doyin Ekundayo, encouraged participants to maximise the mentoring and training opportunities available through the chamber.

Founder of SDA Advance Limited, Dr Seyi Abiodun, advised entrepreneurs to focus on building investment-ready businesses through sound financial management, proper record-keeping and credible financial statements.

Divisional Head, Institutional Banking at Providus Bank, Dr Abosede Yinka Ogundimu, said businesses must prioritise financial planning, effective cash-flow management and reserve building to achieve long-term sustainability.

Representatives of the Lagos Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Bank of Industry (BOI) and Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) also educated participants on regulatory compliance, annual returns, business registration, access to finance and product certification.

They urged entrepreneurs to comply with regulatory requirements, maintain proper documentation and obtain the necessary certifications to improve competitiveness, enhance consumer confidence and expand market opportunities.