The Lagos State government has committed to backing the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Akoka’s Innovation Challenge, named after the former vice-chancellor, Professor Oluwatoyin Ogundipe. This annual event, launched in 2019 within the university’s Faculty of Science, invites students from public and private institutions nationwide to develop business concepts aimed at addressing societal issues in Nigeria.
During the recent finale, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised UNILAG and Professor Ogundipe for creating an initiative that aligns with the government’s focus on education and technology, fostering hope, and encouraging collaboration among the youth. The state government intends to continue supporting this endeavor.
Notable figures present, including Mr. Kola Adesina and Professor Ayodele Ogunye, highlighted the potential of the Innovation Challenge to cultivate future leaders. They expressed continued support for the challenge, urging the university to maintain momentum.
UNILAG’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, emphasized the importance of producing job creators and employers among the university’s graduates, given the high percentage of Nigeria’s population being young adults without government employment. She underscored the university’s dedication to nurturing research, innovation, and entrepreneurship among students.
Professor Oluwatoyin Ogundipe explained that the idea originated from students and faculty members in the Faculty of Science, and while he was honored to bear the competition’s name, the real credit belonged to those who conceived it. He acknowledged the resumption of the competition following the COVID-19 pandemic and the strike, with a record 947 applications received this year, leading to 10 finalists.
Dr. Victor Odumuyiwa, a guest speaker, addressed the challenges faced by Nigerian youths, including the lack of systemic support and the tendency to seek opportunities abroad. He advocated for an environment conducive to local investment and cautioned against premature abandonment of promising ideas due to immediate financial needs.
Team Neptune from UNILAG won the competition, with Team Horizon from LASU Ojo and Team Ilucens also from UNILAG securing second and third places, respectively. All winners will receive funding and access to free training at Opolo Global Innovation.
