By Esther Onyegbula

Entourage Integrated Trust Limited has expanded its operations to four additional states, Borno, Nassarawa, Taraba and Kebbi, as part of efforts to deepen access to finance for small and medium-scale enterprises, SMEs, across the country.

The financial institution said the move is aimed at strengthening grassroots financial inclusion, particularly in underserved regions where structured credit facilities remain limited.

With the latest expansion, Entourage now operates in over 29 states nationwide and supports more than 300,000 entrepreneurs and business operators, driven largely by sustained demand for flexible credit solutions and closer field engagement.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr. Seyi Asagun, said the expansion was guided by the need to maintain physical proximity to entrepreneurs operating outside traditional commercial hubs.

“Our focus has never been growth for optics. It has always been about proximity, being physically present where businesses operate and ensuring entrepreneurs can access support without barriers,” he said.

He explained that the newly opened offices would cater to traders, agricultural entrepreneurs and micro-enterprises that often operate outside the formal credit system, adding that the company’s lending models are structured to align with daily, weekly and seasonal income patterns.

Also speaking, the Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Philip Nkafuonye, said the expansion had been matched with investments in internal capacity and operational systems to sustain service quality.
“As we grow, our priority is maintaining service quality. Every new office represents not just expansion, but deeper engagement with local business communities,” Nkafuonye said.

Entourage noted that the scale-up comes amid persistent financing gaps confronting Nigerian SMEs, stressing that its model prioritises ethical lending practices, structured repayment plans and long-term partnership with business owners.

The company added that it would continue to consolidate its presence in existing states while pursuing measured expansion into other underserved regions to promote inclusive and sustainable SME growth.