FUTA Students Excel in Entrepreneurship Programme, Win Major Cash Prizes

The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) recently hosted a skill acquisition and business pitch programme aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and self-reliance among students.

Organized by the university’s Centre for Entrepreneurship in partnership with LED Transformation Initiatives and sponsored by Christ Apostolic Church, Kings Realm, UK, the event concluded with top-performing students receiving cash prizes.

Oluwaseun Johnson Akindutire, CEO of Hollux Kreations, a printing and fashion company, emerged as the overall winner, taking home ₦1,000,000. Onuabuchi Elizabeth Ogbonnaya, CEO of Luxe Beauties, a hair care and grooming brand, secured second place with a ₦500,000 prize, while Lydia Adedoja, CEO of Pizz Treats, known for peanut-based products such as coated peanuts, peanut butter, and peanut milk, finished third, receiving ₦400,000.

The competition attracted 108 participants, which was later reduced to 35 semi-finalists before the top three were selected.

During the event, students also showcased art and entrepreneurial products developed in the annual ENT 302 course to the Vice-Chancellor, highlighting the practical skills acquired through the programme.

Pastor Femi Kings, a FUTA alumnus and convener of LED Transformation Initiatives, encouraged students to pursue their business ambitions, citing his own university experiences as a source of inspiration. “My time as a student motivated me to support others in achieving their entrepreneurial goals,” he said.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Adenike Oladiji praised the collaboration between the Centre, LED Transformation Initiatives, and the sponsoring church, emphasizing that such programmes equip students with the knowledge and resources to thrive in business. She advised winners to use their prize money wisely and urged more partnerships to support student entrepreneurship.

Professor Ganiyu Oboh, Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship, highlighted the importance of blending education with practical skills to produce self-reliant graduates capable of managing their talents effectively. The programme not only rewarded innovation and business acumen but also aimed to instill confidence in students to leverage their skills alongside formal education for lasting success.