Today marks a defining moment in the economic journey of Ogoniland as entrepreneurs, innovators, policymakers, investors, and development stakeholders converge for the Ogoni Entrepreneurship Summit. The summit represents a bold statement from the convener and CEO of Giolee Global Resources, Chief Lesi Maol, as well as other stakeholders, that Ogoniland is ready to move from economic potential to structured prosperity driven by enterprise, innovation, and local capacity.
For decades, the Ogoni narrative has largely been shaped by environmental struggles and socio-political challenges. While these realities remain important, the Ogoni Entrepreneurship Summit deliberately shifts the spotlight to a new and equally powerful story of youth-led innovation and sustainable economic growth.
According to the convener, the summit creates a platform where ideas meet opportunity, where local businesses are not just discussed but positioned for growth, visibility, and impact.
At its core, the Ogoni Entrepreneurship Summit is designed to nurture tomorrow’s entrepreneurs by equipping them with practical knowledge, mentorship, and access to networks and funding that are often out of reach for grassroots business owners.
Participants are exposed to proven business models, policy insights, and lived experiences from entrepreneurs who have built viable ventures in similar environments. This practical orientation ensures that attendees leave not just inspired, but better equipped to build and sustain businesses.
The summit also bridges critical gaps between entrepreneurs and stakeholders. By bringing together government agencies, financial institutions, development organizations, and private sector leaders, it creates a rare opportunity for dialogue, collaboration, and partnership. This ecosystem-driven approach is essential for building an enabling environment where businesses can thrive, jobs can be created, and local wealth can be retained within Ogoniland.
Importantly, the Ogoni Entrepreneurship Summit places young people at the center of economic transformation. As the most active drivers of innovation and enterprise, their participation signals a future where opportunity is inclusive and growth is community-based. Through mentorship sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, emerging entrepreneurs gain access to guidance that can redefine their entrepreneurial journeys.
As the summit unfolds, it stands as a call to action for key stakeholders to invest in local talent, to believe in homegrown solutions, and to collectively reimagine what economic success looks like for Ogoniland. Conversations from the summit are expected to ripple far beyond the venue, shaping policies, inspiring enterprises, and laying the foundation for a resilient, entrepreneur-led Ogoni economy.
