Ibukun Awosika, former chairperson of First Bank, says Nigeria’s progress depends largely on the choices of its citizens, particularly through voting and economic participation.
Awosika spoke on Wednesday at the Jerry Eze Business Grant award ceremony, where she urged Nigerians to take responsibility for building the country.
“This nation, for all its problems, its solution is in the hands of its people, either by how we vote or by how we conduct the portion of it that is in our hands,” she said.
She said sustainable growth will come from entrepreneurship rather than reliance on government jobs.
“Government is not the job creator. Our entrepreneurs are the job creators,” she said.
Awosika added that Nigeria must create an environment that supports innovation and business growth.
According to her, small businesses have the potential to scale and create employment.
“A company that employs 10 people can grow to employ 50, then 1,000, and even 10,000,” she said.
She encouraged young entrepreneurs to take their roles seriously and focus on building viable ventures.
“Whatever you build is your part of it. Will you build to create jobs?” she asked.
Awosika also advised participants not to underestimate small beginnings.
“Everything that will become great has a beginning,” she said.
She said early stages of business serve as a learning ground where entrepreneurs can test ideas with lower risks.
“Our salvation is in our hands,” she added.
