Thousands of Nigerian small businesses are set to gain new digital skills as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), TikTok, and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) launch the Digital Commerce Labs initiative to help entrepreneurs expand their reach and grow online.
- Thousands of Nigerian small businesses are set to gain new digital skills as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA),...
- The programme also includes a training drive expected to support at least 20,000 entrepreneurs through its pilot phase and broader...
- Boosting Digital Skills for Small Businesses According to NITDA, many entrepreneurs possess strong business ideas but often lack the digital knowledge...
- Organisers have stated that participation will be free, allowing entrepreneurs from different sectors and regions to take part.
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The programme also includes a training drive expected to support at least 20,000 entrepreneurs through its pilot phase and broader outreach.
The initiative was unveiled in Lagos amid growing interest in digital commerce across Nigeria, where millions of businesses increasingly rely on online platforms to connect with customers. Organisers say the programme will equip micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) with the practical skills needed to compete in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
Boosting Digital Skills for Small Businesses
According to NITDA, many entrepreneurs possess strong business ideas but often lack the digital knowledge needed to market products, engage customers and access wider markets. The Digital Commerce Labs programme seeks to bridge that gap through structured learning and mentorship opportunities.
Participants will receive training in digital marketing, content creation, audience engagement, online sales, data analytics and the use of artificial intelligence tools for business growth. The curriculum will combine online learning modules with expert-led workshops to provide practical, hands-on experience.
The first learning modules are expected to go live in July, followed by virtual masterclasses and additional training sessions later in the year. Organisers have stated that participation will be free, allowing entrepreneurs from different sectors and regions to take part.
TikTok Commits Funding to Pilot Phase
As part of the partnership, TikTok has committed approximately $20,000 to support the programme’s pilot stage. The funding will contribute to curriculum development, training activities and outreach efforts targeting entrepreneurs, including those in underserved communities.
Representing NITDA Director General Kashifu Inuwa, Dr Aristotle Onumo described digital commerce as an essential tool for business growth. He noted that entrepreneurs who embrace technology are better positioned to reach larger markets, improve productivity and build sustainable enterprises.
Supporting Nigeria’s Digital Economy Goals
The programme aligns with NITDA’s broader ambition to achieve 70 per cent digital literacy nationwide by 2027. Using existing networks and partnerships, the agency will expand digital commerce education to entrepreneurs in urban and rural communities.
Industry stakeholders believe the initiative could strengthen the capacity of Nigeria’s SME sector, which contributes nearly half of the country’s gross domestic product and accounts for a large share of employment. By improving digital capabilities, organisers hope more businesses will be able to access new customers, increase revenue and explore opportunities beyond local markets.
With registrations already underway and training scheduled to begin in the coming weeks, the Digital Commerce Labs programme marks another effort to accelerate digital adoption among Nigerian entrepreneurs and strengthen participation in the country’s growing online economy.