Eleanya Eke, the founder and CEO of Risevest, has publicly backed initiatives to drive innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria's South-East region [1].

This support comes as the region seeks to modernize its economic base by integrating technology and startup culture into its traditional commercial strengths. Strengthening the local ecosystem could reduce the reliance on external hubs and create sustainable high-growth jobs within the region.

Eke said the drive for innovation requires a structured approach to growth. She said that for entrepreneurs to succeed, there must be a concerted effort to improve access to capital [1]. Without reliable funding mechanisms, many local innovators struggle to scale their ideas beyond the prototype stage.

Beyond financial support, Eke said mentorship is a critical pillar for the region's development [2]. She said that guidance from experienced leaders helps founders avoid common pitfalls and accelerates the professionalization of new ventures.

The initiative aims to create a more robust environment where technology can intersect with existing industries. By fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, the region can attract more domestic and international investment [1].

Eke's backing aligns with broader goals to decentralize Nigeria's tech scene. While Lagos has historically dominated the startup landscape, the South-East possesses a strong entrepreneurial spirit that Eke said can be harnessed through the right institutional support [2].

The focus on the South-East is intended to drive overall economic growth and ensure that the benefits of the digital economy are shared across different geographic zones in Nigeria [1].

“Eleanya Eke has publicly backed initiatives to drive innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria's South-East region.”

The endorsement from a prominent fintech leader like Eke signals a strategic shift toward decentralizing Nigeria's tech ecosystem. By focusing on the South-East, the movement seeks to transition the region from a trade-centric economy to one driven by scalable technology and venture-backed startups, potentially diversifying the national economy's growth drivers.