Igbinedion University Flags Off 2026 Entrepreneurial Skill Acquisition and Employability Training

Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State, has officially commenced its 2026 Entrepreneurial Skill Acquisition and Employability Training, bringing together students, members of staff, invited guests and virtual participants to promote entrepreneurship, innovation and employability among undergraduates.

The opening ceremony was held on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the University Main Auditorium. The programme was organised by the Sir (Dr) David Osunde Centre for Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition (CESA) under the theme, “Building Entrepreneurial Mindset: Solving Real Problems in a Digital Economy.”

Declaring the programme open, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, PhD, FAS, stated that the university's mission extended beyond awarding academic degrees to producing well-rounded graduates equipped to navigate the realities of the modern economy.

He expressed appreciation to the Chancellor, Sir Chief (Dr) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, and the Deputy Chancellor, Chief (Dr) Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion, for their consistent moral and financial support towards the development of the institution.

Prof. Ezemonye identified unemployability, rather than unemployment alone, as one of Nigeria's major challenges.

He noted that with a population exceeding 230 million and a median age of 18, more than two million young people enter the labour market annually. According to him, while universities continue to produce graduates with academic qualifications, industries increasingly require individuals equipped with practical and technical skills.

He explained that the growing influence of artificial intelligence and automation was transforming the employment landscape, making it necessary for graduates to look beyond conventional job opportunities and focus on creating value.

The Vice-Chancellor emphasised that developing entrepreneurial abilities and acquiring relevant skills were essential for preparing students to remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven economy.

The keynote lecture was delivered by Prof. Abolaji D. Dada of the School of Logistics and Innovation Technology, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA).

Prof. Dada, a former Head of FUTA's Department of Entrepreneurship and Manager of its Innovation Multihubs, addressed critical issues surrounding opportunity recognition, digital enterprises and emerging technologies.

He highlighted the importance of developing a clear vision, effective planning, collaboration, continuous skills development, mentorship and perseverance in building successful entrepreneurial ventures.

Concluding his presentation, he outlined three guiding principles for aspiring entrepreneurs: think critically, innovate purposefully and create sustainable value.

The training forms part of Igbinedion University's efforts to equip students with practical entrepreneurial competencies, strengthen their employability and prepare them to identify and develop solutions to real-world problems in an increasingly digital economy.