FUNAAB Students To Benefit From ₦10 Million Innovation Prize By BudgiT Co-Founder

The Co-Founder of BudgiT, Mr. Oluseun Onigbinde, has unveiled a ₦10 million Innovation Prize exclusively for students of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB).

The announcement was made on September 23, 2025, during a colloquy held at the Green Chamber themed “The Future of Engineers in Nigeria: Bright or Bleak?”

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Onigbinde emphasized the critical role of engineers in shaping Nigeria’s future, particularly in an era driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI). He explained that while not all graduates may remain in traditional engineering practice, the discipline equips them with resilience and problem-solving skills that are valuable across diverse professions.

He urged students to strive to become “total students” by adhering to five guiding principles: leveraging data for problem-solving, embracing interdisciplinary approaches, testing local solutions, cultivating lifelong learning, and maintaining integrity. According to him, engineers are the “heartbeat of production,” and only a blend of competence and creativity would secure their place in the global workforce.

In his welcome address, the Acting Dean of the College of Engineering (COLENG), Prof. Rasaq Adetunji, encouraged students to adopt AI as a tool for innovation and competitiveness. He expressed confidence that the future of engineering in Nigeria is promising if graduates align themselves with global technological advancements.

The event concluded on a celebratory note with a surprise birthday recognition for Mr. Onigbinde, who used the occasion to announce the Innovation Prize for FUNAAB students, further positioning the University as a hub for creativity and forward-thinking solutions.

With this bold initiative, FUNAAB continues to consolidate its reputation as a breeding ground for innovative ideas capable of driving societal transformation.