New initiative targets skills, market access and growth for small businesses across Nigeria

By ifeoma Onyekachi

TikTok and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have unveiled a new initiative aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s small business ecosystem through digital innovation and skills development.

The programme, known as Digital Commerce Labs, is designed to equip small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the tools, knowledge and networks needed to scale their operations and compete effectively in the digital economy.

In a joint statement by TikTok’s Acting Head of Government Relations and Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa, Tokunbo Ibrahim, and ICC Secretary General, John Denton, the partners said the initiative would support entrepreneurs with digital skills, improved market access and business resilience strategies.

The programme is being implemented in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, underscoring a multi-stakeholder approach to enterprise development.

According to the statement, Digital Commerce Labs will leverage TikTok’s digital commerce ecosystem alongside ICC’s global trade expertise and network of business chambers to deliver practical training, mentorship and scalable learning models for SMEs.

Participants will benefit from a mix of community engagement sessions, self-paced online courses and interactive virtual classrooms, enabling them to engage directly with industry experts and peers.

The organisers noted that the initiative is expected to enhance digital literacy, encourage peer learning and contribute to the development of sustainable digital commerce ecosystems in Nigeria and other participating countries.

Denton said the programme would promote a more inclusive global economy by providing small businesses with the tools required to thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

Ibrahim added that the collaboration would help entrepreneurs move beyond online visibility to achieving sustainable growth by effectively leveraging digital platforms.

The Digital Commerce Labs is set to launch across 10 countries, including Nigeria, with plans for further expansion across Africa and other regions later in the year.

Small business owners in Nigeria have been encouraged to register for the programme to take advantage of the training and growth opportunities it offers.