US backs 200 Nigerian entrepreneurs for local, export markets

The United States is actively bolstering Nigeria's economic future by empowering 200 young entrepreneurs through its Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund Manufacturing Programme. This eight-month initiative, which concluded its 2026 cohort graduation in Lagos, specifically targeted local agropreneurs, with a strong emphasis on supporting youths and women.

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The U.S. Mission is focused on increasing two-way trade and investment between the United States and Nigeria. Programmes like this help young, up-and-coming entrepreneurs get their products ready for market here in Nigeria and in the United States. That is the two-way trade that we are trying to increase.

Participants received comprehensive training designed to prepare their products for both the Nigerian and American markets. Key areas of focus included mastering regulatory compliance, enhancing business development strategies, and improving market access. The program's success is attributed to its leadership by Mandela Washington Fellowship alumna Roberta Edu, CEO of Moppet Foods, and its funding from the U.S. Department of State.

Julie McKay, Acting Consul General of the United States in Lagos, highlighted the program's alignment with the U.S. Mission's objective to expand two-way trade and investment. "Programmes like this help young, up-and-coming entrepreneurs get their products ready for market here in Nigeria and in the United States," McKay stated, emphasizing the goal of increasing bilateral commerce. She also noted that the initiative showcases how U.S. exchange program alumni can deepen economic ties by transferring knowledge and supporting emerging businesses.

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To every graduate in this room, you really are the future of Nigeria and the future of a competitive economy. You are building not only businesses but also jobs. You have embraced innovation, upheld high standards and contributed to sustainable economic growth. That is a future worth investing in, both for the United States and Nigeria.

McKay further assured graduates of continued support through the U.S. Mission's network of 30 American Spaces across Nigeria, offering resources like free internet, business training, and mentorship. She described the graduates as "the future of Nigeria and the future of a competitive economy," recognizing their role in building businesses, creating jobs, and contributing to sustainable economic growth. The program's ultimate aim is to strengthen commercial ties by enabling these entrepreneurs to compete effectively in both local and international arenas.

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We don’t just put the certificate on the wall. It’s a continuous process, and we, as the U.S. Consulate and the U.S. Mission will be around for you as you continue to do this.