Global Entrepreneurship Festival Kicks Off in Akure
Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has identified entrepreneurship as a key driver for poverty eradication and sustainable development. Speaking at the launch of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Akure, the Governor called for collective efforts to harness innovation and entrepreneurial energy for economic transformation.
“Entrepreneurship fuels innovation, propels economic growth, and advances social progress. Entrepreneurs are the visionaries who take risks, break boundaries, and create opportunities to solve real-world challenges,” he stated.
Declaring the three-day event open, Governor Aiyedatiwa described it as a landmark occasion poised to reshape the socio-economic landscape of the state. He highlighted the festival’s objectives, including celebrating entrepreneurial achievements, fostering collaboration, inspiring young entrepreneurs, and stimulating the local economy.
The Governor also underscored Ondo State’s economic strengths, from its strategic location and abundant natural resources to ongoing developmental projects. He pointed out the state’s status as Nigeria’s fifth-largest hydrocarbon producer and its 40% contribution to national cocoa exports, alongside the anticipated benefits of the proposed Ondo Deep Seaport.
“Our state is a magnet for investment with immense opportunities in oil and gas, agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure. With the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway set to link Ondo to Lagos in 30 minutes, we are primed for economic growth,” he added.
Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the Ondo State Entrepreneurship Development Agency (ONDEA) for advancing job creation and entrepreneurship. He urged festival participants to embrace the entrepreneurial spirit, saying, “Together, we can build a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous society.”
Entrepreneurship Village: A Catalyst for Growth
Chairman of the Entrepreneurship Village Board, Mr. Dan Walkovitz, praised the initiative as a platform for mentorship, funding, and innovation. “The Entrepreneurship Village will transform ideas into reality and cultivate the next generation of global leaders,” he said.
Renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist Mrs. Folorunso Alakija delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the role of entrepreneurship in eradicating poverty. “This festival is not just about business; it’s about empowering individuals to unlock their potential and make meaningful contributions to society,” she said.
Mrs. Alakija encouraged participants to seize the opportunities provided by the festival and transform their ideas into impactful ventures.
Ondo’s Commitment to Youth Empowerment
Summy Smart Francis, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Entrepreneurship and Project Lead for the festival, expressed gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for fostering a business-friendly environment. He lauded the Governor’s dedication to youth empowerment, calling it a source of inspiration.
“With this event, we have achieved what was once deemed impossible—hosting Nigeria’s first-ever Global Entrepreneurship Festival,” he remarked.
The festival features panel discussions, networking sessions, and exhibitions, aiming to solidify Ondo State as a center for business and innovation.
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