Oyebanji pledges support for innovation, entrepreneurship in Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reiterated his commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship to promote the state’s values and secure a prosperous future for its people.

Oyebanji assured that his administration would employ all available resources and human assistance to make this vision a reality.

The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, spoke on Tuesday during the three-day Ekiti Innovation Summit held at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic Centre in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

Oyebanji praised the progress in cultivating a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in Ekiti, adding that the state remains committed to shaping a brighter future for the younger generation.

He said, “As we gather here today, we acknowledge the tremendous potential of our youths, who are the driving force behind Ekiti’s innovation ecosystem. This has reinforced the commitment of the current administration to providing the necessary support, resources, and infrastructure for them to thrive in the digital era.

“With established initiatives like the Ekiti Startup Garage, which serves as a hub for ideas to flourish and transform into groundbreaking solutions for local and global challenges, Ekiti State is advancing towards a prosperous, technology-driven economy, poised to lead in digitalisation within the nation.

“Our vision for Ekiti State is clear: to position Ekiti as a beacon of innovation, contributing to Nigeria’s economic development and enhancing the prosperity of our people. We are proud of the many young innovators here today who represent our state’s bright future.

“Together, I firmly believe we can shape an Ekiti that leads in innovation, serves as an example of growth and opportunity across Nigeria, and contributes to the nation’s economic development,” the governor said.
Ekiti State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Digital Economy, Mr. Oluwaseun Fakuade, noted that the summit aimed to shape the future by “unleashing the giants and the geniuses within our people and creating a brighter future”.

Fakuade, who praised the establishment of the Ekiti Knowledge Zone, described it as “a $95m AFDB-backed initiative,” said, “This will transform our state into a hub for digital innovation and a knowledge economy. The Ekiti Knowledge Zone is a testament to our commitment to fostering innovation, job creation, and sustainable economic growth.”

The commissioner said that most discussions at the summit would “encourage and inspire youth to learn, grow, acquire skills, and embark on a new journey towards becoming a unicorn for Ekiti State.” He urged participants to take the summit seriously.