Emmanuel Clement
The recent #EndBadGovernance Protest movement in Nigeria has served as a stark reminder that Nigerians are yearning for better lives and improved governance.
The current administration has faced significant criticism, as citizens believe the economy could be far stronger. Against this backdrop, the 2024 Future Summit, themed “Fresh Start: Charting New Horizons,” emerged as a potential solution to the nation’s ongoing challenges.
The Summit which welcomed specialists from various fields and enlightened entrepreneurs to boldly explore new horizons saw leaders shared their experiences and professional insights, inspiring the audience to embrace the concept of a fresh start.
In her keynote speech, Mrs. Tonya Lawani, CEO of SEAL Group, a rapidly growing conglomerate, encouraged young entrepreneurs to chart new horizons in their personal and professional lives. Lawani emphasized that fresh starts are an integral part of life, whether in relationships, education, business, or governance.
She advised that writing down ideas is a powerful step towards realizing them, but also warned that fresh starts come with challenges, such as doubting the significance of an idea or being unsure how to bring it to life. Lawani stressed the dangers of procrastination, which she called the “biggest failure of entrepreneurs.” She urged the audience to overcome fear by starting now rather than delaying.
Speaking with newsmen she expressed her honor in sharing ideas with young people and helping them chase their goals, while thanking the convener, Odulowo Olusola Kish, and hoped her words had a positive impact.
Lending her voice,Mrs. Tosin Adebayo Yusuf, Executive Director of Heirs Insurance Group, shared her journey of transitioning from chemical engineering to the insurance sector, a move she acknowledged was challenging but worthwhile. She explained that global and economic factors, such as taxes and changing preferences, often drive the need for fresh starts.
Yusuf highlighted how the COVID-19 pandemic acted as a global catalyst for fresh starts, particularly in e-commerce and remote work. She encouraged the audience to embrace adjacent innovation, cross-industry collaboration, and sustainable growth to navigate fresh starts. She also emphasized the value of seeking good advice from any source, regardless of its origin.
Teslim Olusi, founder of the Omoluabi Foundation, underscored the importance of being prepared for the future. He reminded the audience that each person’s future is determined by individual preparation and pursuit, which differs for everyone. Drawing from his own experiences across various sectors, including photography, mass communication, soap-making, marine studies, and politics, Olusi emphasized that determination and perseverance are crucial to achieving success in a fresh start.
Dr. Adeniyi Ojikutu, CEO of Pacific Network Solution, spoke about the necessity of adaptability in entrepreneurship, particularly in response to economic changes and inflation.
He stressed the importance of innovation and keeping up with business trends, citing the rise of locally made fashion designs as an example of a successful shift in consumer preferences, while emphasizing on the importance of empathy in leadership, noting that it fosters stronger bonds and inclusivity among team members.
Mrs. Damilola Sonayon James, MD of DGS Consulting, acknowledged the discontent many Nigerians feel towards the current administration. However, she advocated for collaboration with the government, urging entrepreneurs to study the system, make recommendations, and find ways to support positive change. She stressed the importance of synergy between the government and the people in charting a new horizon.
Agatha McMadu, the founder of Agatha Legal Law Firm, spoke on the importance of mindset shifts in embracing new horizons.
She encouraged the audience to be flexible and ready to start afresh when needed, rather than remaining rigid or fearful of change,reiterating that change is inevitable and constant, and individuals should be prepared to adapt when the time comes.
The event featured other prominent attendees, including mentor Adeniyi Adams, Managing Partner at ADAKSA Ltd., Ufuoma Ogeleka, UAC Restaurant Brand Innovator, and Brand Strategist Bright Okere, among others.
