By Paul Joseph
TikTok and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have launched a new global initiative aimed at strengthening small businesses in Nigeria through digital training, mentorship, and access to online commerce tools.
The programme, known as the Digital Commerce Labs, is designed to equip entrepreneurs with practical digital skills and resources needed to expand market reach, increase revenue, and build more resilient enterprises.
The initiative was announced in a joint statement signed by Tokunbo Ibrahim, Acting Head of Government Relations and Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa at TikTok, and ICC Secretary General John Denton.
According to the statement, the programme is being supported by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, reflecting a multi-stakeholder effort to boost Nigeria’s digital economy.
It noted that the partnership will combine TikTok’s digital commerce infrastructure with ICC’s global trade expertise and business chamber networks to deliver structured training, mentorship sessions, and scalable learning models for local entrepreneurs.
The organisers explained that implementation will include community engagement sessions, self-paced online modules, and virtual classrooms where participants can interact with industry experts.
They added that the initiative is expected to promote peer learning, deepen digital literacy, and support the growth of sustainable digital commerce ecosystems across Nigeria and other participating countries.
Speaking on the programme, ICC Secretary General John Denton said the collaboration would help build a more inclusive global economy by equipping small businesses with practical tools to compete effectively in the digital era.
TikTok’s Tokunbo Ibrahim also described the initiative as a pathway for entrepreneurs to move beyond online visibility into long-term sustainable growth through effective use of digital platforms.
The statement further disclosed that the Digital Commerce Labs will roll out across 10 countries, including Nigeria, with plans for expansion into other parts of Africa and additional global markets later in the year.
Small business owners in Nigeria have been encouraged to register for the programme to take advantage of the training opportunities and support systems it offers.
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