The symposium, organised as part of activities marking the 60th birthday celebration of the Group Managing Director of Rainoil Limited, Mr Gabriel Ogbechie, served as a platform for knowledge sharing, mentorship, networking, and entrepreneurial development.
Addressing participants at the event, Ogbechie stressed the importance of resilience, strategic leadership, innovation, and mentorship in building sustainable enterprises capable of driving Nigeria’s economic growth.
According to him, entrepreneurship goes beyond profit-making and requires discipline, consistency, integrity, adaptability, and the ability to withstand economic pressures and market uncertainties.
He explained that the symposium was conceived to inspire and equip young entrepreneurs with practical business knowledge, relevant exposure, and the mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly changing economic environment.
“The purpose of this symposium is to inspire entrepreneurs and expose them to experiences, ideas, and conversations that can positively transform their businesses and future,” Ogbechie stated.
He further noted that successful businesses are often built not solely on access to funding, but also through mentorship, strategic guidance, continuous learning, and the willingness to embrace innovation.
Ogbechie maintained that creating opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs to interact with accomplished business leaders remains critical to national development and long-term economic sustainability.
The event featured keynote sessions and panel discussions involving notable industry players who shared insights on enterprise growth, economic transformation, innovation, and effective leadership practices.
Executive Director of Sahara Group, Mr Tope Shonubi, urged entrepreneurs to prioritise integrity, patience, resilience, and innovation while building sustainable ventures.
According to Shonubi, long-term business success is largely dependent on credibility, consistency, and the ability to adapt to evolving market realities.
He also commended Ogbechie for his continued commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and supporting initiatives that contribute meaningfully to economic growth and national development.
Speaking during a panel session, Chairman of AA Holdings, Mr Austin Avuru, highlighted the need for increased investments in education, healthcare, and innovation as critical drivers of socio-economic progress in Nigeria.
Avuru called on government institutions and private sector stakeholders to implement policies and initiatives that create opportunities for young entrepreneurs, innovators, and startups across the country.
Also speaking at the symposium, Mrs Godrey Ogbechie, wife of the celebrant and Group Executive Director of Rainoil Limited, described the initiative as a reflection of her husband’s passion for mentoring and supporting the next generation of business leaders.
She explained that the symposium was designed not only to commemorate his 60th birthday but also to create a lasting platform for empowering entrepreneurs with the knowledge, confidence, and exposure required for business success.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of financial grants worth N5 million each to ten selected entrepreneurs to support the growth and expansion of their businesses.
Organisers noted that the grants formed part of the symposium’s broader objective of promoting entrepreneurial excellence and encouraging enterprise development in Nigeria.
Other speakers and panelists at the event included Mrs Ngozi Ekeoma, Group Managing Director of Nepal Energies; Mr Chidi Ajaere, Group Managing Director of GIG Motors; Mr Nonso Okpala, Group Managing Director of VFD Group; Mr Olusegun Zaccheaus, West Africa Strategy Lead at PwC; Mr Idris Bello-Osagie, Special Adviser to the Minister of Finance; and Mr Yomi Awobokun, Chairman of Konstructum Contracting Company.
Participants at the symposium described the initiative as timely, particularly amid Nigeria’s current economic realities, noting that mentorship, innovation, and strategic collaboration remain essential tools for building resilient businesses and unlocking sustainable growth opportunities.