By HeapNews
Akure, Ondo State, is set to become the center of global attention as it hosts the Global Entrepreneurship Festival from November 22 to 24, marking a first for any Nigerian state. Regarded as the largest entrepreneurship-focused event worldwide, the festival promises three days of transformative activities aimed at fostering innovation and economic growth.
At a press conference held on Tuesday at Revenue House, Akure, Mr. Summy Smart Francis, the Project Lead and Special Adviser on Entrepreneurship to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, highlighted the festival’s significance.
“This event will generate significant traffic to Ondo State, boosting revenue and positioning the state as a hub for entrepreneurship,” Francis stated, adding that the preparations have already caught international attention. Promotions featuring Ondo State have appeared on global platforms, including New York’s Times Square and strategic locations in Lagos and Abuja.
Francis also lauded Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, noting, “The governor will be the first in Nigeria to host the Global Entrepreneurship Festival, demonstrating Ondo State’s commitment to fostering innovation.”
Wale Akinlosotu, Commissioner for Information, described the event as a milestone. “The fact that Ondo State is hosting this global summit is a source of pride for the governor. The event, which will gather over 10,000 participants, is expected to transform the state economically,” he said.
Olugbenga Omole, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa’s visionary leadership. “Just like the governor’s name, Ondo State is truly ‘lucky’ to host a globally significant event like this. It will open new growth opportunities, especially in transportation,” he remarked.
Special Adviser on Gender, Olamide Falana, expressed optimism about the festival’s transformative potential, saying, “This event will pave the way for industries to begin trooping into Ondo State, positioning it as a prime destination for commerce.”
The Director of Business Development at ONDIPA, Femi Akarakiri, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for keeping the festival apolitical, emphasizing that it underscores the state’s development-focused agenda. “Within 20 years, Ondo State will emerge as Nigeria’s economic hub, driven by the entrepreneurial spirit of its people,” he predicted.
With over 12 key activities, including networking sessions, an open conference with globally renowned speakers, and connections with visionaries, the festival promises to inspire participants to discover their potential and connect with global investors.
Professor Simidele Odimayo,Special Adviser on Health assured attendees that the health sector is fully prepared to support the event. “Ondo State is ready to ensure the well-being of all participants,” she stated.