By Nana Musa
Dr Stephen Akintayo, Chairman of GText Holdings, has announced a major business conference aimed at empowering over one million Nigerian entrepreneurs.
Speaking at a news conference in Abuja on Thursday, Akintayo said the initiative would tackle economic hardship and support government policies on entrepreneurship development.
He explained the Stephen Akintayo Foundation would empower participants not only with funding but also with essential mentorship and strategic guidance.
“Many small businesses fail not for lack of funds, but due to poor guidance and absence of support,” Akintayo noted.
He stressed that the empowerment programme will include an advisory body to help entrepreneurs sustain and scale their businesses.
“This is not just a talk shop. We’re offering practical insights, expert mentorship, and tools to help businesses grow despite economic challenges,” Akintayo said.
The Business Growth Conference will feature top business experts, investors, and successful entrepreneurs sharing actionable strategies and innovative approaches.
Akintayo reiterated the foundation’s mission to build entrepreneurial capacity among Nigerian youths and promote self-sufficiency through skills and enterprise.
The foundation has already supported thousands with free training, mentorship, and business grants across the country.
“Entrepreneurship is a vital pathway to economic recovery and national development,” Akintayo stated.
He added that empowering resilient business leaders could shift Nigeria’s poverty and unemployment narrative.
The Abuja edition will take place at the Intercontinental Hotel from April 12 to 13, followed by Lagos at Eko Hotel and Suites from April 19 to 20.
Interested participants can register on the Stephen Akintayo Foundation’s official website for free access and further details.
Farouq Usman, MD of GTEXT Homes, highlighted the importance of sustaining new businesses in today’s tough climate.
He said the conference would guide emerging entrepreneurs to scale up and become employers of labour.
Usman confirmed that selected mentors would monitor mentees throughout their growth journey.
Busayo Aderemi, MD of HD Homes and a mentee of Akintayo, shared how mentorship accelerated her business success.
“Having a mentor helps you grow fast. I encourage every entrepreneur to seize this opportunity,” she said.
