Bayelsa to empower 500 MSMEs through E-Commerce initiative

Bayelsa State government has launched E-Commerce Entrepreneurship Programme (BEEP 2025), a transformative initiative aimed at empowering 500 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the state. The programme, scheduled to kick off this Tuesday, is part of the state’s MPOWER500 initiative, which seeks to drive inclusive economic growth and sustainable development. Special Adviser to the Bayelsa Governor on Trade and Investment, Mrs Owanari Harry, stated this yesterday at a news conference in Yenagoa. She said that in the midst of Nigeria’s digital boom, too many businesses in Bayelsa remain excluded from its benefits and held back by limited access to digital tools as well as technical know-how, and viable markets. According to her, the programme is designed to bridge the gap between local businesses and the digital economy. “BEEP is our answer to that gap. It is our strategy to ensure no entrepreneur is left behind.
From e-commerce and logistics to branding, payment systems, and marketplace integration, BEEP 2025 will provide structured support that ensures every beneficiary is prepared to scale and succeed,” she said. “BEEP 2025 is more than an economic initiative; it is a bridge designed to transition 500 of our most promising MSMEs into Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital economy.” She further said “it will also provide beneficiaries with digital training, industry-specific mentorship, business starter packs, grants, and funding, as well as direct linkages to national and international markets. The government expects the programme to lead to expanded market access, greater participation of women and youth in the digital economy, enhanced competitiveness of local enterprises, and a robust increase in jobs and local production.”
Also, the state commissioner for information, orientation and strategy, Mrs Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, said the programme which is aimed at driving inclusive economic growth by supporting nano, micro, small and medium enterprises (NMSMEs) annually is a testament to the governor’s unwavering commitment to transforming the lives of Bayelsans. “This programme aligns perfectly with the prosperity assured agenda, which prioritizes economic inclusion, youth and women empowerment and sustainable development. It is a shining example of our administration’s dedication to enhancing the potential of our people and creating opportunities for growth and prosperity.” She therefore urged all stakeholders to support the programme to help build a prosperous Bayelsa where everyone has access to opportunities and resources.