Modupe Oyekunle, the Founder and CEO of Masterpiece Resource Development Centre (MRDC), has reaffirmed her dedication to fostering long-term entrepreneurial growth, following the wrap-up of a major capacity-building programme in Lagos.
In a press release, MRDC announced the successful completion of the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) “Start and Improve Your Business” Training-of-Trainers course. This initiative was implemented in partnership with NECA’s Network of Entrepreneurial Women, with the goal of enhancing entrepreneurial capabilities within Nigeria and across the African continent.
“Our vision at MRDC is to discover, nurture, and deploy both youth and women entrepreneurs,” said Oyekunle. “We focus on building capacity, encouraging mentoring relationships, and establishing platforms for networking while cultivating a community of entrepreneurs who actively support one another.”
She noted that the organisation saw the need to cultivate a solid in-house team of trainers equipped with practical experience to deliver mentorship that goes beyond theory.
“We recognised the importance of developing a pool of facilitators who don’t just teach, but can lead with real-world insights,” Oyekunle explained.
This effort led to MRDC’s formal adoption of the ILO’s internationally acclaimed Train-the-Trainer certification, which has since boosted the quality and credibility of the business support services provided by the Centre.
Oyekunle expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce and Industry for its contribution to the programme, saying, “This marks our second training cohort, and we deeply value the ministry’s endorsement. Their support significantly amplifies our reach and effectiveness.”
She also highlighted that MRDC’s training framework covers essential modules such as ‘Generate Your Business Idea,’ ‘Start Your Business,’ and ‘Improve Your Business.’ “Whether you’re just entering the entrepreneurial space or aiming to expand, our trained mentors bring a blend of professionalism and lived experience to help guide your journey,” she said.
Noruwa Edokopolo, a Board Member and Master Trainer with MRDC, emphasized the global success of the ILO’s SIYB programme. “The Start and Improve Your Business framework has a proven track record, empowering millions of entrepreneurs worldwide. It delivers reliable tools and methodologies for launching and scaling businesses sustainably,” he said.
He noted that MRDC’s adoption of this framework has elevated local business practices by aligning them with international standards.
Speaking from a participant’s perspective, MRDC’s Public Relations Officer, Toyin Benjamin, shared how the training helped her identify and correct inefficiencies in her business. “People often focus on funding, but what truly affects business success is poor planning and costing. This programme teaches you how to spot and fix those critical weaknesses,” she said.
Another participant, Oriola Oluwatosin, described the training as transformative, stating that it had not only boosted his confidence but also equipped him to support fellow entrepreneurs and grow his own business effectively.
