By Onilede Titi Faith
To mark International Youth Day 2025, Skyewise Group convened entrepreneurs, innovators, and youth advocates in Abuja for a vibrant symposium urging young Nigerians to believe in themselves and take charge of their futures.
The event, themed “The Modern Entrepreneur: Navigating an Evolving World,” provided a platform for candid discussions on business, leadership, and personal growth in an era of rapid change.
In his address, Dr. Elvis Abuyere, CEO of Skyewise Group, urged youths to move beyond the pursuit of government jobs and embrace entrepreneurship and creativity.
“True success comes from creating value for others,” he said, noting that this principle led to the creation of the Skyewise Foundation years ago.
Abuyere criticized Nigerian banks for making access to funding difficult, even for profitable businesses, and advised young entrepreneurs to explore alternative financing options.
The event also marked his 40th birthday and honored his late mother; one of the victims of the 2012 Dana Air crash, whose generosity deeply influenced his life.
“You don’t have to be great to give, but giving makes you great,” he reflected.
Guest speakers; including Mrs. Itsemhen Thomas Kama (Assistant Director, FCT-NAFDAC), Mr. Msoo Mee (Business Consultant), and Mr. Mustapha Adinoyi (Senior Product Manager, Easy Comply), shared advice on building resilience, fostering patriotism, and overcoming impatience. They emphasized that government support alone is not enough and encouraged youths to acquire skills, start businesses, and take ownership of their future.
A panel discussion titled “The Nigerian Youths: Beyond a Regime” featured Ms. Stephanie Odia (COO, Skyewise Group), Mr. Adewale Jana (Creative Director, Sapphire Scents and Sapphire Men), and Ms. Sonia Somuvie (Founder, Care Sphere Nigeria and Ecosmart Climate Action).
Panelists urged young people to focus on building sustainable, independent paths to success, rather than tying their ambitions to political cycles.
