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Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa
The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called on investors all over the world to come and invest in the state, saying the government has provided an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
Aiyedatiwa said the state’s vast economic potential, including its strategic location, rich natural and mineral resources, and ongoing developmental projects were enough to make business thrive.
He stated this at the opening of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival at the International Culture and Events Centre, Akure, the state capital on Friday.
According to him, the state’s position as Nigeria’s fifth-largest producer of hydrocarbons, its 40 percent contribution to the country’s cocoa exports, and the promising future of the proposed Ondo Deep Seaport, has made the state a location for economic activities.
“Our state is uniquely positioned for investment, with boundless opportunities in oil and gas, agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure development. The ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project will connect Ondo to Lagos in about 30 minutes, making it a prime location for economic activities,” he stated.
Aiyedatiwa called for collective action to harness the power of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit for economic transformation.
He added, “Entrepreneurship is the life-blood 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.”
The governor emphasised the multidimensional objectives of the festival, including celebrating entrepreneurial achievements, fostering collaboration, inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs, and boosting local economy.
The Chairman of the Entrepreneurship Village Board, Mr. Dan Walkovitz, described the village created in Akure, as a transformative initiative designed to help entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life.
“The Entrepreneurship Village in Ondo state will provide a platform for mentorship, funding, and innovation. It is a place where dreams are turned into reality, and where the next generation of global leaders will emerge,” Walkovitz said.
He added that the initiative aims to foster a culture of creativity and collaboration, making Ondo State a hub for business growth and development