Networking opportunity for ICT, agro, export entrepreneurs

A new networking opportunity has opened for players in the information and communications technology (ICT), agro-processing, manufacturing, energy, finance, aviation, export and trade in Nigeria and the whole of Africa.

This opportunity is provided by the Institute of Business Development, Nigeria, which is bringing together players in several sectors of the economy in Africa at the upcoming International Business Development Week/Summit scheduled to take place between July 23 and 24 this year at Sheraton Hotel, Lagos.

The essence of the workshop is to bring together key players in each sector to network and interact, while also equipping the entrepreneurs for the challenges of the 21st Century.

The summit will expose African entrepreneurs to new business opportunities in various sectors and proffer solutions to the knowledge gap plaguing African businesses. The summit also intends to end the perennial problem of business collapse and inability of most businesses in the continent to outlast their founders.

These reflect on the theme of the event entitled, ‘Business Development in Africa: Regional Integration for Sustainable Comparative Advantage.’

According to the organisers, the summit will also empower the entrepreneur of the 21st Century with the right information, expose exporters to business opportunities in Africa and showcase how partnership can bring great returns to businesses in the continent.

“The event aims to create a sustainable model for the continent by addressing strategies for business development in ICT/telecoms, finance, agro-allied and aviation-related sectors,” said Paul Ikele, registrar/CEO, Institute of Business Development, the organiser.

“Every year during the International BD Week/Summit, we celebrate entrepreneurs, business giants, governments and some of Africa’s top brands that come together to network,” Ikele said, adding that participants will go home each day with excitement and renewed energy.

Micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) owners will most likely be the biggest beneficiaries. By definition, MSMEs are businesses that have less than 200 employees or assets worth below $2.5 million. This places over 80 percent of African businesses on this class.

But this is not limited to MSMEs as large enterprises in the aviation, energy, ICT and manufacturing will also discover how they can leverage opportunities provided by MSMEs, partnership and networking to improve margins.

“This is Africa’s biggest annual business development event,” said Ifeanyi Ogochukwu, local organising chairman, in an interview.

“The summit brings together some of the world’s greatest minds and achievers in business development across vital industries to examine and challenge business practices in Africa,” Ogochukwu said.

Another set of entrepreneurs that will derive great value from the seminar are the agriculture players, who will not only be exposed to modern practices but will also meet other big players and learn from them.
In essence, the seminar will enhance entrepreneurs’ know-how and expose them to current trends in the industries they play.

According to the organisers, attendance is open to all interested persons and organisations in private and public sectors, as well as other key development professionals such as chief executive officers, general managers, chief operating officers, research and development managers, project managers and other business owners in Africa.
Topical issues such as adopting strategies to enhance business partnership in Africa, improving aviation infrastructure and employing ICT as a tool of business development will be discussed.

Organisers can be reached via 08080795347 or info@ibdng.com. You my visit the website at www.ibdng.com or office address at 3, Adewale Crescent, off Ewela Road by Marble Field Hotel, Oshodi.

ODINAKA ANUDU