Oba Afolabi Ghandi Laoye unveils a 25-year digital economy plan to transform Ogbomoso into a leading hub for growth and innovation
The Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Laoye, has unveiled a transformative 25-year digital economic growth plan aimed at positioning the ancient city as a leading hub for digital transformation.
The announcement, made during his address at the Ogbomoso Digital Economy Summit, held on Wednesday at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, marks a significant milestone in the city’s economic future.
Themed “Financing and Deploying Resources for Digital Transformation,” the summit brought together key stakeholders, including traditional rulers, government officials, tech entrepreneurs, and academics, all focused on shaping the city’s economic trajectory.
During the event, Oba Laoye emphasised the importance of integrating technology into diverse sectors such as agriculture, health, education, tourism, commerce, and sports to propel Ogbomosoland’s economic growth.
The monarch revealed that the 25-year plan would focus on empowering industries, creating employment opportunities, improving the quality of life for residents, and unlocking the city’s full potential.
By fostering a technology-driven environment, Ogbomoso will be able to drive innovation and attract investment, particularly in key sectors.
A major part of the vision is the upcoming Ogbomoso International Economy Summit, set to take place in April 2025. This summit will serve as a platform to attract investors and showcase the city’s expanding economic potential.
The event also featured speeches from influential figures, including Mr. Iyin Aboyeji, the founding partner of Future Africa.
Aboyeji advised the government to prioritise policy development and infrastructure improvement over direct business funding.
He highlighted the need for the establishment of local business success stories that can inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs.
In line with this, Dr. Adeyemi Aderinto, an expert in urban development, underscored the value of talent as a critical resource.
He pointed out that cities like Ogbomoso, still relatively underdeveloped, represent the next frontier for economic growth.
As established urban centres like Lagos and Abuja become increasingly saturated, Ogbomoso’s emerging potential as a business hub presents a unique opportunity for economic expansion.
With a population of 1.2 million, Ogbomoso’s demographic strength is seen as a powerful catalyst for change.
Mr. Aboyeji expressed confidence that the city could evolve into a major economic centre within the next decade, provided it taps into this strength and embraces innovation.
The summit also featured remarks from Prince Dotun Oyelade, Oyo State’s Commissioner for Information and Orientation.
He praised the efforts of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration in strengthening chieftaincy affairs, noting the installation of 10 kings and 40 Baales since 2019.
Oyelade called for increased collaboration between traditional rulers and the government, urging Oba Laoye to work closely with the state government to accelerate sustainable development in Ogbomoso.
The collective efforts and shared vision displayed during the summit are expected to pave the way for Ogbomoso to achieve its goal of becoming a global economic force.
Business3 years ago
