EDC, SMEDAN, others strengthen agric-economy, certify business development service providers

The Enterprise Development Centre, Pan-Atlantic University, in partnership with the Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), Kaduna Business School, and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, has graduated the first cohort of 100 certified Agric-Business Development Service Providers (Ag-BDSPs).

The graduation ceremony, held at the EDC building in Lagos recently, marked a significant milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural enterprise ecosystem. The inaugural cohort received certificates after completing an intensive training programme designed to equip them with specialised skills, tools, and practical approaches to support small and medium-sized agribusinesses across Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, according to a statement,  Nneka Okekearu, Director at the Enterprise Development Centre, Pan-Atlantic University, highlighted the importance of developing specialised advisory capacity for the agricultural sector.

According to her, agribusinesses require tailored support because the sector has unique characteristics and challenges that differ from those of other industries.

“We have regular advisory services you can provide to any sector. But in agriculture, the issues, nuances, and peculiarities are different. So you need consultants who understand those peculiarities to advise and help them grow,” she said.

Okekearu explained that the Ag-BDSP initiative represents a critical step towards strengthening the ecosystem required for agribusiness growth.

“This is our first cohort of 100 that EDC is graduating. AGRA is powering the initiative. Beyond the programme, there are platforms to deepen the agribusiness space, and these 100 consultants will be the first to be considered for agribusiness consulting,” she added.

She noted that sustainable enterprise growth requires a strong support system involving business advisors, consultants, and facilitators.

“No small business can do well on its own. For them to grow, they need an ecosystem. Part of that ecosystem is consultants, business advisors, and facilitators. These certified Ag-BDSPs will guide businesses to survive and thrive. Once they grow, more jobs will be created, and there is a ripple effect.”

Also speaking at the event,  Olawale Anifowose, Director for Programmes and Partnerships at EDC, described the graduation as a significant milestone in efforts to strengthen business advisory support for Nigeria’s agricultural enterprises.

He explained that the programme was launched under AGRA’s “Strengthening BDSP Ecosystem” project to develop a pool of professionals equipped to provide specialised support to agribusinesses.