By: Adeosun Ewatomi
Entrepreneurship Can Unleash Genius in You, Ogunbiyi Tells Ajayi Crowther Students
Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, the Group Chairman of Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, has encouraged Nigerian students to embrace entrepreneurship, stating that it can unlock their potential for innovation and creativity.
Speaking at Ajayi Crowther University in Oyo, Ogunbiyi emphasized that entrepreneurship fosters adaptability and drives sustainable economic growth, ultimately building a resilient national economy.
Addressing the theme "Entrepreneurship for Economic Sustainability: An Agenda for Nigeria's Development," Ogunbiyi called on the Federal Government to prioritize the development of an entrepreneurial culture, which is essential for building a workforce with specialized skills. He highlighted that only seven percent of Nigerians gain higher education and acquire these vital skills, underscoring the importance of skill enhancement for economic progress.
Ogunbiyi also noted that young Nigerians must cultivate critical thinking, prioritize tasks, and navigate challenges to thrive as entrepreneurs. He expressed concern over Nigeria's talent migration or "japa" phenomenon, which has led to a loss of skilled professionals, particularly in the technology sector.
However, Ogunbiyi shared a glimmer of hope, noting that the African Development Bank (AFDB) is establishing a $100 million Youth Investment Bank in Nigeria, designed to support young entrepreneurs through technical assistance, business incubation grants, and lending guarantees from local banks.
Highlighting the success of Nigeria's fintech sector and Nollywood, Ogunbiyi praised the entertainment industry for its role as the country's second-largest employer after agriculture, providing job opportunities across various fields.
The Vice Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, Timothy Adebayo, commended Ogunbiyi's insights, noting that public lectures offer students real-world perspectives from seasoned professionals. He emphasized that entrepreneurship can lift individuals out of poverty and serve as a strategy for national economic sustainability.
The event was attended by the university's Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr. Muyiwa Popoola, alongside Ogunbiyi and Adebayo, fostering a valuable exchange of ideas on the role of entrepreneurship in Nigeria's future.
0 Comments