Firm Commits to Driving Entrepreneurship Development

In a significant boost to entrepreneurial growth and sustainability in Nigeria, Masterpiece Resource Development Centre (MRDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering youth and women entrepreneurs through advanced capacity-building programs. This follows the successful conclusion of the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) Training-of-Trainers programme, delivered in collaboration with the Network of Entrepreneurial Women under the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA).

Modupe Oyekunle, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of MRDC, emphasized the Centre’s mission to discover, nurture, and develop budding entrepreneurs across Nigeria and Africa. “MRDC was established to build capacity, encourage mentoring, create networking platforms, and foster a collaborative ecosystem where entrepreneurs support one another,” Oyekunle stated.

The recent training initiative reflects MRDC’s strategic approach to entrepreneurship development by creating a skilled internal faculty of trainers capable of providing hands-on mentorship grounded in practical business experience. “We realized the importance of having trainers who do not just teach but also guide others based on real-world challenges and solutions,” Oyekunle added.



The Training-of-Trainers programme culminated in MRDC adopting the ILO’s globally recognized Train-the-Trainer certification. This international standard significantly elevates the quality and impact of business development services the Centre offers, ensuring that entrepreneurs receive practical, actionable guidance aligned with global best practices.

Board Member and Master Trainer, Noruwa Edokopolo, underscored the value of the SIYB model, noting its proven success worldwide. “The ILO’s SIYB framework has empowered millions of entrepreneurs globally by providing tested tools and methodologies for launching and managing sustainable businesses,” he said. “By integrating this model, MRDC is bringing world-class standards to local entrepreneurship development.”



MRDC’s curriculum covers critical aspects of business development, including modules like ‘Generate Your Business Idea,’ ‘Start Your Business,’ and ‘Improve Your Business.’ The comprehensive structure ensures entrepreneurs at various stages—whether starting out or scaling up—receive tailored mentorship and professional support.

Acknowledging the vital role of government partnership, Oyekunle expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce and Industry for nominating participants to the programme. “This is our second cohort, and we appreciate the ministry’s support, which strengthens the reach and impact of our training,” she said.

The collaboration between MRDC and government agencies reflects a broader commitment to Nigeria’s economic diversification and youth empowerment, crucial in tackling unemployment and fostering sustainable livelihoods.


The training has already demonstrated tangible benefits among participants. Toyin Benjamin, MRDC’s Public Relations Officer and a programme attendee, highlighted the practical insights gained. “It’s not just about funding; many businesses fail due to poor planning and inaccurate costing. This training helps identify those gaps and teaches how to address them effectively,” she explained.

Similarly, entrepreneur Oriola Oluwatosin described the training as “a powerful tool for growth,” crediting it for boosting his confidence and equipping him to support fellow entrepreneurs while expanding his own business.


MRDC’s dedication to entrepreneurship development is aligned with Nigeria’s broader economic goals. By equipping entrepreneurs with skills, mentorship, and networks, the Centre contributes to reducing youth unemployment, encouraging innovation, and fostering a culture of business sustainability.

The initiative also underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, as the training incorporates global best practices tailored to local realities. MRDC plans to expand its training reach and deepen partnerships with both public and private stakeholders to further strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

As Nigeria strives to diversify its economy beyond oil dependence, initiatives like MRDC’s play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of business leaders and innovators.