ORGANISERS of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival (GEF), said they have made arrangements to execute the biggest entrepreneurship event in the world and create a platform that fosters networking, learning, and growth for entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.
At a press conference in Lagos to herald the festival slated for November 22 to 24, in Ondo State, they promised to present a diverse array of activities, including workshops, panel discussions, and keynote speeches from industry leaders.
The Ondo State Commissioner for Information, Wale Akinlosotu, said the theme of the festival: “Beyond Boundaries: Poverty Eradication through Entrepreneurship,” resonates deeply with the mission of the state.
“It emphasises our collective belief that entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool in addressing poverty in every corner of the globe. Our dear state is big on entrepreneurship as is evident the fact that we have the first entrepreneurship agency in Nigeria.
“For us as a state, this festival is not just an event; it is a movement aimed at inspiring individuals and communities to harness their entrepreneurial spirit to create sustainable solutions for poverty alleviation.
“I am particularly proud that this laudable initiative is being hosted in our dear state. It is a testament to our commitment to fostering an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship can thrive. We are excited to showcase the rich potential of our state,” he said.
Continuing, he said: “We are not shy to boast that Ondo State, has the longest coastline in Nigeria and also the highest mineral deposited, the second largest bitumen deposit in the world to name a few. We do not mince words when we say our state is entrepreneurship driven and investor friendly. These and many more ways we pay attention to demonstrate how we can contribute to the global dialogue on poverty eradication.
“As we prepare for the festival in November 2024, on behalf of my Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, I assure the world and the global community that we are dedicated to delivering a befitting event that meets the high expectations set before us. We are working diligently to ensure that the objectives of the festival are not only met but exceeded.
“Together, let us embrace this opportunity to create pathways for change, fight economic challenges and eradicate poverty using the weapon of entrepreneurship. We look forward to welcoming you all to Ondo State in November, where we will celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship and its power to transform lives.
The Special Adviser to the Ondo State Government on Entrepreneurship and Innovation, who doubles as the Project lead for the festival, Dr. Summy Smart Francis, described the upcoming conference as the best thing that would happen to the country.
He said the festival is aimed towards bringing global awareness to poverty eradication. “The best weapon in Nigeria to fight poverty is through entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship is our strength; why not use it to pay attention to your weakness, use it and your weakness will fade out. That is what the festival will be celebrating.
“As we prepare for the festival, I assure the world that we are dedicated to delivery of an outstanding event and assure that the objective of the summit is met.”
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