In an effort to place innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment at the heart of Port Harcourt’s future, the maiden edition of The More Summit 2025 was held on September 19, bringing together young people, industry leaders, and changemakers under the theme "Igniting Innovations for a Brighter Future."

The summit aimed to challenge Port Harcourt’s long-standing reliance on oil and inspire young people to explore opportunities in emerging sectors. Convened by renowned media personality Moyosore Williams, the gathering called for a bold mindset shift.

The event drew participation from key stakeholders in the business and development community, with representatives from Rotaract District 9141, AIESEC Port Harcourt, Face of the Future, and Outdoor Naija, alongside the support of sponsors including Folstaj International Limited, Nextwave Homes, Zubara Global Services, The Fruitful Vine, and Oceanklass Solutions Limited.

In her welcome address, Moyosore emphasized the urgency of reimagining the city’s future through innovation and entrepreneurship. She noted that while Port Harcourt has long been associated with oil wealth, the future demands that young people reimagine what the city stands for and take ownership of building opportunities in diverse sectors. She urged the audience to recognize that innovation and creativity, not just natural resources, will define the next era.

She said: “The future is now. If we are willing to look beyond oil, we will discover that there is more within us; more to build, more to create, and more to offer the world. Innovation and creativity are the true wealth of this generation, and it is our responsibility to harness them to shape a future we can be proud of.”

The day unfolded through keynote addresses and panel sessions designed to inspire, challenge, and equip participants.

The first panel, “Purpose Over Pressure: Redefining Success in a Distracted Generation,” explored how young people can rise above societal expectations to pursue meaningful, purpose-driven lives. Speakers including Eseosa Gabriel (Legal Practitioner), Honey Ojukwu (Media Personality), and Moyosore Williams emphasized resilience, service, and intentional growth as anchors of success. Williams underscored this point, noting: “One of the key principles to success is to serve. Because in serving, you learn, make your mistakes, and grow.”

The keynote address, delivered by Pastor Oyindamola Oludapo, reinforced this call to purpose and excellence. She urged participants to resist the trap of mediocrity, reminding them: “Many young people settle for average because of reasons like fear, comparison, background, or pressure. But the cycle must be broken for us to see the MORE within.”

The second panel, “The Future is Now: Building Relevant Careers in a Changing World,” highlighted adaptability and perseverance in today’s workforce. Panellists Promise Chizara (Agribusiness Expert), Maudlyn Yahaya (Manager, Retail & Agency, DHL Nigeria), and Onyeama Obinna (Entrepreneur & Realtor) shared practical insights on carving sustainable careers in evolving industries. Yahaya’s journey from receptionist to senior manager at DHL stood out as a testament to humility, diligence, and growth.

Beyond conversations, the summit translated its vision into tangible opportunities. Ten attendees received scholarships to study Real Estate and Business Fundamentals at the Garden City Real Estate Academy, courtesy of Nextwave Homes. In addition, three participants secured places in a 12-day No-Code Web Development Course sponsored by ROCTech Enterprise (Abuja).

The summit concluded with awards of recognition presented to all panelists and speakers for their contributions to shaping Port Harcourt’s future.

With this maiden edition, The More Summit 2025 has positioned itself as a catalyst for innovation and youth empowerment in Port Harcourt, signaling the beginning of a new narrative for the city, one defined not by its oil legacy, but by the ingenuity and resilience of its young leaders.