=Funmi Falobi=

The city of Port-Harcout, the Rivers State capital , recently hosted one hundred and twenty one (121) budding Nigerian entrepreneurs at a two-day workshop where up-and-coming entrepreneurs, selected from across Nigeria, learned how to transform their ideas into practical business plans, manage business risks, navigate difficult moments, seek capital, and develop partnerships to help their businesses grow.

Organized by the United States Consulate General Lagos in collaboration with Field of Skills and Dreams VTE Academy, the event, which was the second edition of the Conference for Emerging Entrepreneurs was declared opened by United States Consul Generalm F. John Bray, joined by the  Rivers State Deputy Governor, Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, and the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Ndowa Lale.

In his welcoming remarks, Consul General F. John Bray explained that one of U.S. Mission Nigeria’s primary goals is to support Nigeria’s economic development. According to him, the U.S. Department of State supports entrepreneurs all over the world through training and mentoring, while also working with governments to create enabling environments and entrepreneurial cultures.

“There is growing evidence that entrepreneurs the world over are the drivers of job growth. The United States government is firmly convinced that in addition to creating jobs and expanding economic opportunities, entrepreneurship contributes to political stability and a vibrant civil society,” Consul General Bray added.

The Conference, which was organized with a view to equipping entrepreneurs with the requisite skills and entrepreneurial know-how to enhance their success in the business world had presentation from business leaders including Sahara Group Co-Founder Tonye Cole, Emzor Pharmaceutical CEO Stella Okoli, Andela Co-Founderm Iyin Aboyeji, award-winning designer, Zizi Cardow and senior executives of prominent commercial banks mentored and trained the participating young entrepreneurs.

The first edition was held in Lagos in March 2017.