Oyo State Government Advances Youth Empowerment Initiatives
The Oyo State government has reiterated its dedication to empowering the youth, promoting entrepreneurship, and enhancing local production as pivotal elements for economic growth. This commitment is exemplified by the upcoming launch of the Graduate Industrial Self-Employment Scheme (GISES) within the next two weeks.
Launch of the Graduate Industrial Self-Employment Scheme
At the opening ceremony of the Genspark 2026 Entrepreneur Empowerment Summit and Ibadan Business Exhibition held at Liberty Stadium, Okeade, Ibadan, Mr. Adeniyi Adebisi, Secretary for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives, and Industries, detailed that GISES will function as a structured revolving loan scheme aimed at providing seed capital to unemployed graduates seeking to establish small-scale industrial ventures.
Focus on Entrepreneurship Education
Adebisi emphasized that the initiative incorporates an entrepreneurship development component designed to equip participants with practical skills in business identification, management, and feasibility analysis. These tools are essential for ensuring long-term sustainability in their ventures.
Aligning with Economic Priorities
The summit’s theme, “Local Production as the Backbone of Economic Prosperity, Let’s Get Involved,” aligns closely with the vision of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration, which prioritizes job creation, active youth participation, and sustainable economic development. Adebisi underscored the government’s commitment to addressing unemployment through strategic initiatives such as skill acquisition programs, vocational training, and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Empowering Youth through Skill Development
The Secretary noted that equipping young individuals with market-relevant skills in sectors like manufacturing, agribusiness, and innovation can significantly enhance productivity. This initiative aims to position youth as key agents of economic transformation within the state.
Collaboration for Sustainable Growth
Adebisi highlighted the ongoing partnership between the ministry and various relevant agencies, including the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC). This collaboration is focused on training farmers and exporters, alongside governmental initiatives aimed at nurturing emerging entrepreneurs.
Encouragement for Summit Participants
He encouraged attendees at the summit to seize the opportunities available to establish viable businesses and make meaningful contributions to the state’s economy. The Chairman of the opening ceremony, Oyedapo Idowu Richard, also emphasized the private sector’s critical role in driving economic growth, noting that platforms like GenSpark facilitate networking, investment, and business expansion.
Commitment to Supporting SMEs
In support of these initiatives, Mr. Iyabo Ojogbede, Oyo State Director at the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority of Nigeria (SMEDAN), reiterated the agency’s commitment to assisting SMEs through capacity building, financing, and policy support. Convener Abiodun Ajibade, in his opening remarks, stated that the summit aims to bridge the knowledge gap in entrepreneurship while providing mentorship, business insights, and networking opportunities to participants.
