By Ghazali Ibrahim
Two Nigerian-grown businesses, Prodiva and GingerUp, are set to broaden their Independence Day Fiesta with the introduction of entrepreneur outreach aimed at inspiring and empowering young entrepreneurs across the country.
Scheduled to hold on October 1st, 2025, at Muri Okunola Park, Lagos for this edition with a fusion of entrepreneurship, hopes to turn the initiative into a yearly event with celebration across different parts of the country.
According to the convener, Mrs Islamiyat Bolatito Ajibode, the October 1 gathering will bring together working-class young Nigerians within the 9-5 bracket who are determined to turn the nation’s challenges into opportunities.
The platform will feature successful young entrepreneurs sharing their journeys, from humble beginnings to overcoming hurdles in their business paths.
“What we are doing here is to bring these young entrepreneurs together under one roof on the day of our independence,” the convener explained.
“We want them to tell their stories, how they started, and the hurdles they faced or are facing. It’s also meant to encourage those who feel helpless about starting a business and inspire those in 9-to-5 jobs to consider side hustles they can nurture and grow.”
The convener highlighted GingerUp’s own story as a model for the kind of transformation the event seeks to promote.
Started by the convener who has over 25 years of banking experience, GingerUp, a ready-to-drink beverage offering a concentrate of honey and ginger’s anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties for household consumption, has grown to employ over 40 staff members, demonstrating the potential of entrepreneurial ventures to create jobs and drive economic growth.
Also, the brainchild of Ajibode, the immediate past Deputy Managing Director, Lekki Free Zone Development Company, Prosperity in Diversity (Prodiva), is a fabric manufacturing and distribution company, emphasising Nigerian-made textiles and African clothing. Prodiva promotes national unity through celebrating its rich cultural diversity and heritage, and has been known for organising events, such as the Independence Day Fiesta, which showcases Nigerian music, art, fashion, and culture.
In preparation, organisers will reach out to key companies for support, ensuring that this edition in Lagos has the necessary resources to make an impact.
The long-term goal is to host the event annually in multiple locations nationwide, making it a permanent fixture in Nigeria’s entrepreneurial calendar.
The convener emphasised that the event will not only celebrate Nigeria’s independence but also spotlight the resilience and creativity of its young business minds.
