The Ondo State government is poised to host its largest entrepreneurship summit yet, scheduled to take place in Akure, the state capital, from Friday, November 22 to Sunday, November 24, 2024.
The summit, themed "Beyond Boundaries: Prosperity Beyond Boundaries," is expected to attract over 200 local and international investors and more than 5,000 participants. The event, organized to spotlight Ondo’s investment potential and foster economic growth, will feature an array of activities, including business exhibitions, networking sessions, global recognition awards, a boxing match, fashion shows, an international women’s congress, and a star-studded closing concert headlined by Femi Kuti, Teni, and other international artists.
Speaking at a press briefing, Dr. Summy-Smart Francis, Special Adviser to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Entrepreneurship, emphasized the state’s capacity to become a global business hub, citing Ondo’s rich human and natural resources, including Idanre Hills, Smokin Hills in Ilara-Mokin, and its Blue Economy. He described the state as Africa’s “best-kept secret” and credited Governor Aiyedatiwa for creating a conducive environment for entrepreneurship to thrive.
Dr. Francis reiterated that the summit would expand Ondo’s economic opportunities, attract investors, and provide immense benefits to the state’s youth.
The Commissioner for Information, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, highlighted the festival as a groundbreaking event, expressing confidence in the state’s readiness to host it. He assured participants of maximum security and noted that the festival would positively transform the state’s image.
Other key officials, including the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Lola Fagbemi, and the Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Prince Boye Ologbese, underscored the festival’s significance in promoting inclusivity, gender equality, and reshaping Ondo's economic narrative.
The Acting Chairman of Ondo State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Bayo Rojugbokan, described the festival as timely, predicting it would significantly boost the state’s revenue. Engr. Femi Akarakiri, Director of Business Development and Investment Management at ONDIPA, encouraged youths to seize the summit as a platform to connect with global opportunities.
Dignitaries in attendance at the press conference included Hon. Olawumi Fayemi-Obayelu of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Special Adviser on Health Dr. Simidele Odimayo, and other top government officials, all of whom expressed optimism about the summit’s transformative impact on Ondo State.
