In a momentous occasion on Tuesday, the Ehi Centre for Social and Economic Development in Benin celebrated the successful completion of its Entrepreneurial Master’s and Aspiring Entrepreneurs Programmes. The ceremony, attended by dignitaries and stakeholders, recognized the achievements of 18 graduates who embarked on a transformative journey of growth and innovation.
Dr. Anota Tessa, Executive Director of the Ehi Centre, offered heartfelt congratulations to the graduates, praising their perseverance and the knowledge they gained over the course of their studies. Reflecting on the challenges and successes of the programme, Dr. Tessa highlighted the practical skills and valuable insights the participants would take with them into their professional careers.
Out of the 35 individuals who initially joined the programmes, 18 successfully completed the rigorous coursework. Specifically, 13 aspiring entrepreneurs graduated from the 22 who started the programme, while 5 individuals from the master’s track achieved their certification.
In his address, the Founder and Chairman of the Ehi Centre, Godwin Ehigiamusoe, who is also the visionary behind LAPO, commended the graduates for their dedication and resilience. His message, delivered by his wife Elizabeth Ehigiamusoe, emphasized the importance of applying the knowledge gained to build sustainable businesses that contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.
“The goal of these Enterprise Development Programmes is to equip emerging entrepreneurs with the tools necessary to succeed in a competitive marketplace,” Elizabeth Ehigiamusoe stated. “We are confident that these graduates will become key players in shaping the future of business and industry in Nigeria.”
The 2025 programme, which began on October 20 and concluded on November 24, provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship, from idea conception to scaling a business. They learned the nuances of market research, financial planning, pitching, and branding, all crucial elements for driving innovation and long-term success.
Raphael Osazogie, Managing Director of Raphowens Farms Limited, spoke on behalf of the master’s class, calling the programme “an eye-opening and transformative experience” that had expanded his understanding of entrepreneurship beyond the theoretical to real-world applications.
Class representative Oriri Faith, a graduate of the Aspiring Entrepreneurs Programme, praised the Ehi Centre for its role in fostering a new generation of business leaders. “This centre is not just an educational institution; it is a catalyst for change and progress,” Faith said.
The graduates of this year’s programme are poised to make meaningful contributions to the Nigerian business landscape, armed with new skills, a network of peers, and the confidence to turn their entrepreneurial visions into reality.
