The CEO of Neveah Limited, Ibidapo Lawal Idris, has urged Nigerian youths to reduce the urge to leave the country for overseas, what is now known as ‘Japa’ syndrome, encouraging them to seek solutions within.
He made this call in Abuja while declaring open the fourth edition of the African Entrepreneurs and Investment Roundtable (AFEIR 2024), which had as its theme “Harnessing Global Opportunities in Advancing Investment and Entrepreneurship in Africa.”
The event coincided with African Entrepreneurs and Investors Roundtable 2024, on its second edition.
Lawal, who also chaired the occasion, advised young Nigerians to seize the several opportunities in the country to actualise their dreams.
While underlining that entrepreneurship is the only way to reduce the country’s burgeoning unemployment rate, the Neveah Limited boss, who had returned from overseas to find opportunities in the country, urged organizations to empower entrepreneurs as a way of investing in corporate social responsibility.
“I know as an entrepreneur, it’s not relatively easy to be recognised for some of the things you do. I firmly believe that creating employment is the best form of corporate social responsibility.
“If I give you a thousand naira today without giving you a sustainable livelihood, that one thousand will vanish away, and you will come back to seek another alm.
“But if I give you employment or support your business, that means you have a means of survival, and you can assist those who depend on you”, he stated.
While admitting that entrepreneurship requires hard work, discipline and commitment, Lawal said Nigeria works and is blessed with the potential to help the population live decently.
Lawal, who has over 100 employees in his firm, called on young Nigerians to join hands to develop the country instead of embarking on an overseas journey of uncertainty.
The event attracted several investors who came face to face with young entrepreneurs, allowing them to pitch their business ideas to the investors.
It has morning and evening segments. During the morning segment, a panel of discussants, including Omoye Abulimen, Founder De’ Chayil Footwear Limited, David Osadolor President Nigerian Young, Professionals Forum, says Urubusi, General Manager Cooperatefoot LTD, Mr Tonye Isokariari, Managing Partner Hakrek Advisory Services, Nkiruka Ejimofor, Director, Utosa Energy Oil & Gas/Energy Expert, Oluwadimalare Ifeanyi Adefioye, Co-Founder Junkbox LTD Author- Zero to Entrepreneur.
The Lead Consultant of AFEIR, Daniel N. Obah, said the twin event was organised to help entrepreneurs get the needed exposure to give their businesses new mileage.
The Special Guest of Honour, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, was represented by Air Commodore Oyekunle Abiodun.
In the end, young entrepreneurs were awarded cash prizes to help them boost their businesses.
In the evening session, it was time for dinner and awards as some distinguished entrepreneurs and investors were honoured for their contributions towards the country’s economic development.