The Ondo State Government has disclosed that over 200 investors will arrive ahead of the global entrepreneurship festival that will be held in Akure, the state capital.

While disclosing that over 5,000 participants are being expected, Special Adviser to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Summy Smart, disclosed that the hosting of the festival in the state was designed to turn Akure, the state capital, into an economic hub.

According to the Smart, who is the project lead, the event, which is the world’s largest entrepreneurship-focused event, will feature renowned entrepreneurs, investors, tech innovators, and policymakers from November 22 to 24, 2024.

He maintained that the festival is poised to place the state on the global map of innovation and entrepreneurship, showcasing its potential under the current administration.

The governor’s aide noted that the event marks a milestone as Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa becomes the first Nigerian governor to host the festival, adding that “This event will generate significant revenue for Ondo State and position it as a hub for entrepreneurship.

On his part, Commissioner for Information, Wale Akinlosotu, described the event as transformative, lauding Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and youth development, stressing that “This is a proud moment for Ondo State under the exceptional leadership of Governor Aiyedatiwa.”

Other speakers, including the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Lola Fagbemi, and Special Adviser on Gender, Olamide Falana, emphasised the festival’s potential to empower young people and promote gender equality.

Director of Business Development at ONDIPA, Femi Akarakiri, commended the governor for keeping the festival free of political undertones and noted the state’s vast potential in manufacturing and innovation.

He predicted that the state could become Nigeria’s economic hub within the next two decades.