FUTMinna, CIEEE Advance Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development at Global Conference

The Department of Entrepreneurship, Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMinna), in collaboration with the Certified Institute of Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Education (CIEEE), has hosted the 2026 Global Conference on Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (GCOTIE 2026).

The conference, themed “Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development,” was held on Monday, September 21, 2026, at the SICT Lecture Theatre, Main Campus. It also featured an awards presentation and induction ceremony.

Declaring the conference open, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Uno Essang Uno, described the theme as apt and relevant to the University's commitment to innovation and technology.

He urged the keynote and guest speakers to share their knowledge and experiences with participants, particularly students, and expressed confidence that the objectives of the conference would be achieved.

In his keynote address, the President/Chairman of Council, CIEEE, Entr. Prof. John Olatunji Alabi, appreciated FUTMinna for hosting the conference and providing a conducive environment for the gathering.

He noted that technology enhances productivity, innovation drives invention, while entrepreneurship serves as a vehicle for transformation. He emphasized the need to strengthen the connection among the three through creativity, collaboration and value creation.

The Chairman of the occasion and President, National Shea Products Association of Nigeria (NASPAN), Alhaji Muhammad Ahmed Kontagora, expressed optimism that the conference would equip participants with knowledge to address challenges facing small and medium-scale businesses in Nigeria and promote entrepreneurship as a noble profession.

In his remarks, the Dean, School of Entrepreneurship, urged students participating physically and virtually to actively engage with the speakers and take advantage of the knowledge-sharing opportunities provided by the conference. He also appreciated the Local Organising Committee and other contributors for their efforts.

Earlier, the Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Prof. J. A. Ojekunle, said the conference provided a platform for scholars, industry experts, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to exchange ideas on using technology, innovation and entrepreneurship to address Nigeria's challenges.

The Guest Speaker and Director-General, Small, Medium Enterprises and Micro Finance Agency, Niger State, Mr. Ahmed Shuaibu Gwada, observed that many businesses fail within their first five years because entrepreneurs often venture into business without clear plans and roadmaps. He urged participants to identify problems and develop innovative solutions before starting a business.

Similarly, the Chairman/CEO, Golden Age Hi-Tech & Products Company, Amb. Okoli Anthony Chidi, stressed that entrepreneurship could not be separated from technology, innovation and value creation. He also highlighted the importance of integrity, continuous learning, strategic relationships, savings and multiple sources of income.

A major highlight of the conference was the presentation of honorary doctorate and entrepreneurship awards, as well as the conferment of fellowships by CIEEE on the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta; Senator representing Niger East Senatorial District, Sen. Sani Musa 313; and the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, H.E. Sen. Uba Sani.

Other dignitaries were recognised as Icons of Entrepreneurship, while the Department of Entrepreneurship, FUTMinna, received the CIEEE Most Outstanding Department in North-Central Nigeria Award.

The conference also featured the inauguration of the Niger State Chapter of CIEEE, induction of new fellows and members, and the launch of an Entrepreneurship Dictionary.

In his vote of thanks, the Head of Department, Entrepreneurship, Prof. Mukaila Ijaiya, appreciated the University management, CIEEE, speakers, participants and the Local Organising Committee for their contributions to the success of the conference.

He described the event as impactful and memorable.