By Olugbenga ‘Toye
The Chief Executive Officer of A-Z Event Expert, Chief Mrs Folashade Akinrinmola has announced plans for the third edition of the A-Z Exclusive Entrepreneurs Dinner and Awards, describing the initiative as a purposeful platform to inspire leadership, mentorship and sustainable entrepreneurship among youths in Ekiti State.
Speaking at a press conference held on Tuesday at The Grid Office, Ado-Ekiti, the former chairman of Gbonyin Local government, disclosed that the 2026 edition, themed “Leading the Change,” will take place on March 31, 2026. She explained that the all-exclusive entrepreneurs’ dinner and awards is designed to challenge accomplished business leaders to give back by mentoring, guiding and deliberately passing on the entrepreneurial spirit to the younger generation.
According to her, the event will convene successful CEOs and industry leaders from key sectors such as commerce, finance, hospitality, media and other areas of the economy, providing a premium environment for networking, collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Chief Akinrinmola noted that the awards segment will celebrate outstanding entrepreneurs and corporate leaders whose contributions have significantly driven economic growth and business development in Ekiti State, with recognitions spread across carefully selected categories.
Emphasising the role of local content in economic development, the A-Z Event Expert CEO commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for strengthening indigenous businesses through the Bureau of Local Content and the Local Content Law. She also praised the governor for maintaining peaceful coexistence in the state, a factor she said has attracted development initiatives and landmark projects such as the Agro Cargo Airport, now enhancing business and investment opportunities.
She however tasked the ministry of commerce , youth development and information to always make information that could benefit the lives of younger generation available at all times, saying they are duty bound to make government policies known to the public.
She further called on government institutions, ministries, corporate organisations and public-spirited individuals to partner with A-Z Exclusive Entrepreneurs, noting that such collaborations will expand opportunities for youths, enable them to showcase their talents and support sustainable livelihoods.
Chief Akinrinmola reaffirmed the commitment of A-Z Event Expert and its team to leveraging the A-Z Exclusive Entrepreneurs Dinner and Awards as a catalyst for economic empowerment, leadership development and youth inclusion, positioning Ekiti State as a growing hub for progressive and impactful entrepreneurship.