Union Bank’s alpher Initiative Empowers 125 Entrepreneurs through NBCC’s Entrepreneurship Programme

Union Bank’s alpher Initiative Empowers 125 Entrepreneurs through NBCC’s Entrepreneurship Programme

By prince Benson Davies

Union Bank of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment through its alpher initiative by sponsoring the Nigerian British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) Women and Youth Entrepreneurship Development Centre (WYEDC) Cohort 2 Programme. The program has successfully graduated 125 entrepreneurs who have benefited from comprehensive entrepreneurship training and business grants.

The initiative underscores Union Bank’s dedication to national development and its partnership with NBCC to foster a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are crucial to Nigeria’s economy, accounting for over 50% of industrial employment and contributing approximately 48% to the country’s GDP.

During the graduation ceremony, the Director General of NBCC, Dr. Ebere Njoku, highlighted the Chamber’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, and youth development as key drivers of economic growth and sustainability. The President and Chairman of the Council, NBCC, Mr. Ray Atelly, encouraged the graduates to seize opportunities and persevere in the face of challenges.

The Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Yetunde Oni, represented by Mrs. Vivian Imoh-Ita, Head of Retail and SME Business, emphasized the importance of investing in women and youth entrepreneurs as catalysts for economic transformation. Three entrepreneurs emerged winners of the Union Bank Business Pitch competition, receiving funding for their businesses.