The Chairman of Eze-Ikemba Integrated Farm & Resort in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State, Eze Onyeche Promise Obinna has warned against playing politics with the nation’s economy.
Obinna, who is a Professor of Engineering and the traditional ruler of Ulakwo Agwuruisi Ancient Kingdom, Etche Ethric Nationality said that the country is endowed with abundant natural resources across the 36 states that can end poverty if harnessed.
He made this known during the entrepreneurs’ seminar in Port Harcourt recently and noted that agriculture and other natural resources are enough to grow the economy.
“There are many resources that can make us move out from poverty. Entrepreneurs also need to look down and discover the resources that are available around them.
“Agriculture is the answer to economic diversification and transparent leadership/governance will go a long way growing our economy.
 “Consistency and trust are what sustain an entrepreneur”, he said, adding that entrepreneurs can also play the role of stock brokers between the rural farmers and the exporting companies.
Speaking on a topic, “The Wider World of SMEs with Special Focus on SMEs Knowledge, Growth and Impact on Social and Economic Development of our Society”, Dr. Larry Goodwill Ajiola said entrepreneurs are the engine room of every society.
Ajiola, who is the Managing Director/CEO of I.Conntact-Connect Limited, said entrepreneurs if well taken care of can survive the state and the nation at large.
The MD/CEO who is an international SMEs business consultant reiterated that the problem of SMEs is lack of organisation in the informal sector.
He noted that most people became SMEs just to survive the unemployment in the country, saying that majority of the entrepreneurs do not even acquire knowledge before going into the business they are induced to to.
“The difference between induced and natural entrepreneurs is the attribute of adapting to failures. A passionate SMEs can fail many times and continue till he achieves success”, he said.
Ajiola also noted the importance of information and partnerships in the survival of the entrepreneurs, stressing the need for passion for any chosen field of endeavor.
In his contribution, the CEO, NEMOG Farms Nigerian Limited, Mr. Nwogu Nnadi Emmanuel urged the state to take advantage of the export opportunities provided by the company, especially in the area of cassava cultivation.
“If Rivers State will take advantage of what the company has, it will drive away hunger from the State. Government needs to work with institutions to grow her economy”, he said.

By: Lilian Peters