•••ONDEA-MY-IDEA winners get N1m cash, N2m equipment each
In a bid to position Ondo State as Nigeria’s leading hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has empowered 20 young entrepreneurs with a cash prize of N1 million each and N2 million worth of equipment at the ONDEA My IDEA 2.0 competition held in Akure.
Speaking at the event on Wednesday, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized his administration’s commitment to fostering a thriving entrepreneurial environment.
“The end has come for the narrative of Ondo State being a Civil Service State,” he declared, adding that under his leadership, the state would transform into the capital for entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology.
The competition, which initially had 10 beneficiaries, was expanded to 20 winners to encourage greater youth participation in business ventures.
The initiative is part of the state’s broader plan to nurture young entrepreneurs and ensure their ideas contribute to the state’s economic growth.
Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted the potential of entrepreneurship and technology to reshape Ondo’s economy, stating,
“History has shown that prosperous regions are often transformed by innovative solutions that address challenges and create new industries.”
The ONDEA My IDEA competition, designed to support groundbreaking ideas, is a reflection of the state’s dedication to providing tools, resources, and mentorship for young entrepreneurs.
In line with this vision, Ondo State is set to host the Global Entrepreneurship Festival, a platform to showcase investment opportunities and foster collaborations for economic development.
Expressing his appreciation for the ONDEA team and the competition participants, the governor urged the winners to remain steadfast in their entrepreneurial pursuits.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Entrepreneurship, Summy Smart Francis, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa’s inclusive approach, noting that it has fostered entrepreneurship across even the most remote parts of the state.
The governor’s focus on youth development, he added, has laid the foundation for a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Oladeju Oluwadamilola expressed gratitude for the state government’s support, pledging to make the most of the resources provided.
The ceremony was attended by several top government officials, including Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami and Attorney General Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 18, 2024.
