Innovation, Not Oil, is Nigeria Future, Says BUK Lecturer

Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria's National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), delivered a stirring address at Bayero University's 39th Convocation Lecture, emphasizing the crucial role of innovation and entrepreneurship in shaping Nigeria's future.

Titled "Innovation and Entrepreneurship: A Pathway to National Development," the lecture highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria to harness its youthful population and leverage technology-driven entrepreneurship to drive economic growth and global competitiveness .

With Nigeria's projected population of 264.1 million by 2030, Halilu stressed that the country must produce skilled leaders equipped to navigate the fourth industrial revolution. He called for policies that support innovation and entrepreneurship, citing global data that shows high-income nations boast significantly higher entrepreneurial density than developing economies.

Despite government efforts, such as the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) and youth empowerment initiatives, Halilu argued that the impact has been insufficient due to weak implementation, poor data tracking, and an unfavorable business environment.

He urged the government to recalibrate its policies, citing success stories like Estonia's e-Residency program, which has attracted entrepreneurs worldwide and propelled the country's business growth.

Halilu also emphasized the importance of research and development, stressing that universities must align with global trends, adopt multidisciplinary curricula, and enhance partnerships between academia, industry, and government.

In a direct message to graduating students, he emphasized self-determination, continuous learning, and the power of networking. "Start where you are, with what you have," he advised, urging them to be adaptable, entrepreneurial, and solution-driven .

The lecture drew a distinguished audience, including former vice-chancellors, registrars, traditional rulers, and members of the academic community from Bayero University and other tertiary institutions .