Ojo Peter, Ibadan
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, on Monday, played host to winners of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) award of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
During the event, which took place at his Ile Oodua palace, Ile-Ife, Ooni Ogunwusi called on media practitioners nationwide to promote Nigeria through her youths, especially those in the entrepreneurial and creative sectors.
The Ooni, who is the co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, lamented that Nigeria’s positive sides were being under-reported with undue attention given to the challenges confronting the country.
“Rather than being afraid of the president, governors or other persons in position of authority, my fear is for the young ones whose fate cannot be decided by anyone, no matter how highly placed.
“I wish to commend the federal government for honouring them this much and I call on the mass media to help sell these idea-filled youths to the world. It is another way of taking a break out of the regular sad stories of bombing, looting and banditry.
“Youth development and capacity building is my oxygen; it is what gives me life and that’s why I organised several platforms to ensure that our youths are training to be financially independent towards taking leadership positions which they are destined for.
“Do not be scared, I am here to open all doors for you towards prosperity.” Ooni said.
Speaking on behalf of the MSME awardees of the federal government, Mr. Orioye Benedict, thanked the Ooni for his leadership and mentorship roles which was immensely beneficial to all.
He said, “Kabiyesi, you made our accomplishments possible and we can never forget you for your fatherly roles.
“On behalf of my wonderful colleagues, I wish to state unequivocally that we are just evolving and we are going to bring you more laurels as we are ready to redefine the practice of entrepreneurship in Nigeria.”
Earlier in her address, a prominent successful insurance expert, who was the guest speaker, Mrs. Felicia Pemi Folarin, lauded the young entrepreneurs’ creativity which she said would take them to places.
“As a small business owner, I understand the importance of building a solid foundation for the future and developing long-lasting customer relationships. I am equally aware of your challenges, especially with Nigeria’s economic reality.
“However, I didn’t have a cheerleader like you have in the Arole Oduduwa, our father, the Ooni of Ife, when I started. That is a huge step ahead of others and I want you to make the best of this unquantifiable opportunity.” Mrs. Folarin said.