In a two-day extravaganza, the University of Ibadan hosted the 2023 edition of its Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Fair, receiving accolades from various quarters. Dr. Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, former governor of Oyo state, lauded the university’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth.
Organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Strategic Innovation in collaboration with BLG events, the fair kicked off the 75th-anniversary celebration of Nigeria’s Premier University under the theme “Beyond Borders: Connecting Research, Innovation, and Enterprise.”
Participants, including students, exhibitors, and notable entrepreneurs, praised the fair for providing a platform where SMEs could showcase their products and young entrepreneurs could hone their business skills. Professor Oluyemisi Bamgbose, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research, emphasized the university’s dedication to research-driven success.
The event featured experienced entrepreneurs sharing their insights and offered participants a chance to connect with organizations like the Bank of Industry and Providus Bank, providing mentorship and financial guidance. Mrs. Oyenike Adeleke, Convener of the Ibadan Entrepreneurs Network, urged entrepreneurs to join associations for mutual benefit.
Dr. Femi Awoyemi, Founder of Young Africa Brain, commended the initiative, noting its potential to instill an entrepreneurial spirit in students and support existing businesses. As part of the fair, students engaged in competitions showcasing their skills.
Mrs. Adejoke Oyekan, founder of Purplebloom publisher, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to exhibit, highlighting the financial challenges of book publishing. Amara Ifeanyi Njoku of Providus Bank pledged ongoing support for SMEs in collaboration with organizations.
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Dr. Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, in her address, emphasized the significance of SMEs in sustaining families and urged continuous support for the sector. She shared her personal journey, starting a business from her living room and watching it grow over the years.
The fair concluded with awards, cash prizes, and incentives presented to outstanding students, exhibitors, and staff. “Forget Me Knot NG” emerged as the winner of the Student Entrepreneurs 2023 competition, while “May Couture” triumphed in the exhibitors’ competition. Dr. Mrs. Ajimobi generously rewarded student participants and acknowledged their contributions to the success of the event.
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