Maiden edition of IED Entrepreneurship Boot Camp holds in Uyo

By Nora Inwang

In a bid to train and enlighten citizens of Akwa Ibom State on entrepreneurship and business sustainability, the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Natella Business Academy (NBA), Dr. Mfon Joseph Edem, has organized the maiden edition of the IED Entrepreneurship Boot Camp.

The one-day event, held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at the Ibom Leadership Entrepreneurship Development Center in Uyo, was themed “Empowering Entrepreneurs for Economic Growth Building Sustainable Businesses in Akwa Ibom State.” It brought together enterprising participants from across the state’s 31 Local Government Areas, nominated by 26 members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

The boot camp featured interactive sessions, group presentations, certificate awards, group photographs, and more. Participants enthusiastically shared their business ideas and personal experiences, making the event engaging, insightful, and highly educational.

Speaking with newsmen during the event, Dr. Mfon Edem expressed satisfaction with the large turnout, despite the short notice.

“This programme aligns with the core five-point agenda of Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, to unveil the potential within the state,” he said.

He extended appreciation to the Speaker of the 8th Assembly, Hon. Udeme Otong, and all the House members for nominating participants from their respective constituencies.

“We have entrepreneurs within the state that lack one or two skills that should bring out their entrepreneurial businesses to the fore. That is why my team and I decided to take up this project—to educate and throw more light on how to grow and sustain a business in this era,” Dr. Edem explained.

He further stated that the event aimed to reshape and reignite the mindset of entrepreneurs on the key fundamentals necessary for business success. Dr. Edem also announced his readiness to collaborate with others to provide skill-based training that would add value to entrepreneurial ventures.

“We plan to do something mega, targeting about 1,000 to 2,000 entrepreneurs in Akwa Ibom in the next quarter—three to six months—and take them through the same process with more in-depth training for three to five days,” he assured.

One of the participants, serving corps member Olakunle Sunday Olalekan, praised the organisers, describing the boot camp as a major eye-opener.

“I appeal for more such events to be organized for entrepreneurs,” he said.

The boot camp was hailed as a resounding success, equipping participants with vital knowledge and skills to grow and sustain their businesses.

With plans already underway for future editions, Natella Business Academy is poised to significantly impact the entrepreneurial landscape of Akwa Ibom State.

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