Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to fostering a thriving business environment, offering various incentives to investors during the official opening of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival.
The event, held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome) in Akure, marks a significant step in the state’s efforts to position itself as a hub for innovation and economic growth.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, in his keynote address, emphasised the transformative power of entrepreneurship as a means to eradicate poverty and drive sustainable development.
“Entrepreneurship is the lifeblood of innovation, the catalyst for economic growth, and the driving force behind social progress. It is the entrepreneurs among us who dare to dream, who take risks, and who push boundaries to create new opportunities and solve real-world problems”, he said.
The governor declared the three-day festival open, underscoring its importance in shaping the socio-economic future of Ondo State.
He highlighted the multifaceted goals of the festival, which include celebrating entrepreneurial achievements, fostering collaboration, inspiring future entrepreneurs, and stimulating the local economy.
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Governor Aiyedatiwa also took the opportunity to showcase the state’s vast economic potential, pointing to its strategic location, rich natural resources, and ongoing infrastructure projects.
He noted that Ondo is Nigeria’s fifth-largest producer of hydrocarbons and contributes 40% to the nation’s cocoa exports.
Additionally, the proposed Ondo Deep Seaport promises to open new frontiers for business and investment in the region.
“Ondo State is uniquely positioned for investment, with opportunities in oil and gas, agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure development. The ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project will also enhance connectivity, making Ondo an attractive destination for economic activities,” he said.
The governor commended the Ondo State Entrepreneurship Development Agency (ONDEA) for its efforts in job creation and the promotion of entrepreneurial activities, urging participants to embrace the spirit of entrepreneurship and work together to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous world.
Dan Walkovitz, Chairman of the Entrepreneurship Village Board, also spoke about the transformative role of the Entrepreneurship Village, a new initiative designed to provide mentorship, funding, and support to entrepreneurs.
“The Entrepreneurship Village in Ondo State will help entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life and turn dreams into reality,” Walkovitz said. “This initiative aims to foster creativity, collaboration, and business growth, positioning Ondo as a leading business hub.”
Renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Folorunso Alakija, delivered the keynote address, urging participants to leverage the opportunities presented by the festival.
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She emphasised that entrepreneurship is key to transforming lives and communities. “This festival is not just about business; it’s about empowering individuals to realize their potential and contribute meaningfully to society,” Alakija said.
Summy Smart Francis, Special Adviser on Entrepreneurship to the Governor and Project Lead for the festival thanked Governor Aiyedatiwa for creating an environment conducive to business growth and innovation.
“Ondo State has now achieved what was once thought impossible, as we proudly host the first-ever Global Entrepreneurship Festival in Nigeria,” he said.
The festival will feature panel discussions, networking sessions, and exhibitions, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and grow
