ODSG ADVOCATES ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS CATALYST FOR ECONOMIC STABILITY

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ODSG ADVOCATES ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS CATALYST FOR ECONOMIC STABILITY

Entrepreneurship across the globe continually evolves; reshaping our socio-economic landscape and bringing about technological and economic advancements.

This declaration was made by the Special Guest of Honour, Secretary to Ondo State Government, Princess Catherine Oladunni Odu, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Mrs. Lola Amuda at the FONTS Hall 30th Anniversary celebration, held in Akure, Ondo State.

The Anniversary showcased the hospitality company as a successful Multidisciplinary outfit, blazing the trails of Innovative Excellence since 1993 while its competent service over the years brought together serial entrepreneurs, family and well wishers to witness the review and launching of the book authored by the Chief Executive Officer, FONTS, Mrs. Mojisola Fayankin, titled: “Creativity for Today”.

In conformity to the theme of the event “The emerging Generation of New Entrepreneurs in Ondo State”, Princess Odu, who delivered her lecture titled: “Making Ondo State the New Creative Hub of Entrepreneurship in Nigeria” lauded the management and staff of FONTS Nigeria Ltd for exhibiting outstanding services over the years and noted that she was glad to witness the evolution of the 30 years edifice which has now become a centre of Innovative Excellence.

Delivering her lecture Princess Oladunni Odu said, “The programme was timely, and would serve as an eye opener familiarizing the audience with the agenda of Ondo State Government at promoting entrepreneurship and the efforts of Mr. Governor geared towards diversifying the economy particularly at this time that white collar jobs are no longer readily available, while the only option is to wisely embrace entrepreneurship”

She noted that entrepreneurship remains a viable agent of economic stability and the reliable platform for human emancipation, thus the reason Federal and State Governments are working assiduously to stabilize the economy using different strategies and tactics such as introduction of trade subjects into the school curriculum and organizing relevant programmes.

Speaking on, Princess Oladunni Odu emphasized that the 21st century entrepreneurs are the emerging generation driven by innovation, creativity and they harbor the desire to make positive impact. “They have the following characteristics such as being Tech-savvy and digital natives; they believe in Diversity and Inclusivity; Social Consciousness and environmental awareness; Value for work-life and flexibility and finally they embrace risk-taking and adaptability”

The Secretary stated categorically that Ondo State is one of the few states in the Federation where Government has given priority to entrepreneurs by creating an enabling environment for them to thrive by organizing trainings and empowering the participants.

According to Princess Odu, part of the policies and programmes put in place to enhance Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMSEs) in the State was the establishment of Ondo State Entrepreneurship Agency (ONDEA) in 2020, with the primary goal of promoting entrepreneurship development as a means to eradicating poverty, creating jobs, empowering youth and advancing economic growth in the State.

In addition, she said Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA) was also established by this administration for investment promotion and multilateral corporation. They are to ensure seamless integration of potential investors and partners into the growth and development of the Ondo State economy.

According to the Media Officer in the Office of the SSG, Debbie Fummilayo the recently organized investment summit tagged “Develop Ondo 2.0” was aimed at wooing investors to the State to enable them tap into resources domiciled in the State “All these were targeted at giving opportunities to our youths” she said.

While calling on entrepreneurs to explore the advantages of the Tech world and other digital platforms to develop their businesses, Princess Odu, further emphasized the need to adapt to new technologies such as e-commerce and online marketplaces, which is an important process of recording success among the emerging generation of new entrepreneurs.

In her earlier remarks, CEO FONTS Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Mojisola Fayankin, who appreciated Princess Oladunni Odu for honoring the invitation, said the celebration focused on up-coming entrepreneurs, solely because they have the capability to drive ideas and innovative concepts that could make a business thrive. She therefore stressed that with God and the “Can – Do – Attitude” entrepreneurs could survive in the Nigerian economy.

Giving a review of the book, Professor Debo Adeyewa sincerely commended Mrs. Fayankin and as well said that “The book challenges and propels; it serves as an invitation to re-embark on a journey of self discovery and empowerment, unleashing individuals’ creative potential to enable them contribute and impact their world” . He thus enjoined youths to make the best use of their abilities.