Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has called on indigenes of the state in the diaspora to bring their investments home to help develop the state.
He encouraged well-meaning indigenes to tap into the numerous investment opportunities in Ekiti, assuring them that his administration is committed to creating an enabling environment for investment to thrive.
Oyebanji made the appeal during the inauguration of DOMFAS International Leadership Academy in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital. The academy was founded by an indigene of the state, Dr. Tunji Arowolo, and his wife, Dr. Folasade Arowolo.
The governor stated that the government had implemented several initiatives to promote a conducive environment and investment-friendly legal frameworks for sustainable development in the state.
He commended the academy’s founders for choosing Ekiti as the location for their investment, noting that the institution would complement his administration’s efforts to boost human capital development.
According to him, “What is happening today is a testament to what we achieve when there is an alignment of vision and purpose between the government and the citizens. They have demonstrated to the whole world that Ekiti State is investable. As a government, the least we can do is support them and ensure that the environment is welcoming to investors so they do not regret investing here. We will focus on security, infrastructure, and other factors that will help their businesses thrive.”
In his remarks, Dr. Arowolo explained that the choice of Ekiti, his home state, was to contribute to the socioeconomic growth and development of the area.
He added that the academy adopted a blend of American and African curricula to provide students with a unique and well-rounded educational experience.
The founder explained that the academy was established to transform the narrative of education in Nigeria and Africa by nurturing well-grounded young leaders based on best global practices for a future that ensures impactful leadership.
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Arowolo, who identified the lack of quality leadership as one of the challenges affecting Africa’s development, said he is committed to changing the narrative and producing leaders suitable for leadership responsibilities in every sphere of life.
He said, “Africa as a continent has faced numerous issues related to leadership. While Africa is full of opportunities, many problems stem from a lack of leadership. We aim to change the narrative in Nigeria and Africa. As the late President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, said, ‘The most powerful weapon you can use to change the world is education.’ This is why we view establishing this institution in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, as a calling from God.
“I have spoken with many leaders across the state and nation. Ado Ekiti and Ekiti, in general, are known for being the fountain of knowledge. Some people may not appreciate us because they consider us very principled. During discussions with the governor, he mentioned that we are resilient and ethical, but the main issue is the lack of opportunities.
“What many of us in the diaspora think about daily is how we can contribute our own small part to ensure that we continue to uphold Ekiti’s reputation as the fountain of education and knowledge. This is why we have established this institution. We want to label it as a character-shaping institution where students will learn the admirable attributes of Ekiti people and where we can transform the narrative of education in Nigeria. We are all very proud of what we are doing.”
He noted that the school is equipped with the necessary manpower, infrastructure, and facilities similar to those found in Western countries to nurture young leaders who meet society’s needs.
