TikTok, ICC launch Digital Commerce Labs in Nigeria

TikTok and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have launched the Digital Commerce Labs initiative in Lagos, Nigeria, to empower micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The program aims to equip Nigerian entrepreneurs with the skills needed to establish a strong digital presence, expand their customer base, and thrive in the digital economy. Supported by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), the initiative kicked off with an event bringing together businesses, entrepreneurs, content creators, and industry stakeholders. Participants will receive practical training in crucial areas such as digital marketing, content creation, audience engagement, online sales, and the use of artificial intelligence tools. The program also emphasizes cross-border commerce, preparing businesses to compete globally. Tokunbo Ibrahim, TikTok's acting head of Government Relations and Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa, stated that the partnership with the ICC will enable Nigerian entrepreneurs to compete on a level playing field internationally. She expressed a desire to empower SMBs to not only market and sell within their communities but also to scale their businesses for export. Ibrahim highlighted that digital commerce is transforming business growth across Sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigerian entrepreneurs at the forefront of this shift. Charly Gordon, innovation lead at the ICC, explained that the organization leverages its global network of chambers to develop the curriculum, ensuring it addresses the daily challenges and ambitions of SMEs. ICC experts craft modules specifically designed to help SMEs navigate international trade. NITDA views the initiative as aligned with its goals of enhancing digital literacy and promoting the use of digital tools for business growth. Kashifu Abdullahi, Director-General of NITDA, remarked that platforms like TikTok have evolved beyond entertainment into powerful engines for economic growth, enabling small businesses to reach new audiences and scale rapidly. He commended TikTok's commitment to supporting Nigeria's local ecosystem.

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The world has gone digital. We need Nigerian entrepreneurs to be able to play on a level playing field with entrepreneurs from across the world.