Kwara Youth Urged to Embrace Creativity and Innovation as GEW 2025 Grand Finale Holds in Ilorin
The grand finale of the Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) Kwara 2025 took place today at the Banquet Hall, Ilorin, bringing together innovators, entrepreneurs, government representatives, and industry leaders for a powerful closing session focused on youth empowerment and enterprise development.
Speaking at the event, the Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Kwara State, Alhaji Dare Abdulganiyu, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to nation-building through value reorientation and enterprise support.
He applauded the Lifefount Foundation for hosting a programme that empowers young people with practical skills and exposure.Alhaji Dare also explained that entrepreneurship must be tied to strong national values, honesty, and responsibility if young Nigerians are to become globally competitive. He further added that the NOA will continue to strengthen partnerships that promote patriotism and community-driven development.
Dr. Yemisi Adeyeye, CEO of Lifefount Foundation, in her encouraged young entrepreneurs to remain resilient, learn continuously, and take advantage of local support systems to scale their businesses.
She appreciated all partners for their effort, which made GEW 2025 a success and urged that the lessons learnt should be put to use.
The Emir of Ilorin, HRH Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, represented by onebof his chiefs, called for stronger collaboration between government, businesses, and innovation hubs to support emerging entrepreneurs.
Earlier in her welcome address, Mrs. Susan Adekanye, Head of the GEW Kwara 2025 Planning Team, described the event as a platform for promoting inclusion, collaboration, and entrepreneurial confidence among young people and urged government to continue supporting startups.
The Kwara State Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Shehu Ndanusa Usman , who personallygracedthe occasion, and his counterpart from the Communications ministry, Hon Bolanle Olukoju, (represented), called on young Nigerians to look beyond formal education and embrace creativity, entrepreneurship, and technology as pathways to financial independence.
Other speakers also addressed the audience, each highlighting critical aspects of business growth in today’s economy:Oludele Simeon Ayobami, CEO of Kwara Tech Academy, spoke on the importance of digital literacy and tech-enabled innovation for the next generation of founders.
In the same vein, Mr. Fabian George, CEO of Equity Circle, charged participants to strategically integrate technology into their businesses to enhance sales, visibility, and operational efficiency.He urged small businesses to adopt digital tools and seek structured mentorship to grow sustainably.
The grand finale also featured a vibrant trade fair, an elegant Asooke fashion show, tax education sessions, goodwill messages, panel discussions, and the award of certificates to participants and exhibitors.
The GEW Kwara 2025 programme, supported by the Kwara State Government and the Office of the First Lady of Kwara State, continues to position Kwara as a thriving hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment.
