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JABU Pro Chancellor Commends Aladekomo, Chams
Professor Anthony Imevbore, emeritus professor and Pro-Chancellor of Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), has said Demola Aladekomo, group managing director, Chams Plc, and Chams Group still have more to contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth notwithstanding close to three decades of eminent service to the nation.
Professor Imevbore called on JABU students and the Nigerian youth at large to emulate the inspiring lives of Aladekomo and other successful Nigerian entrepreneurs who have contributed and are contributing immensely to the growth and development of the Nigerian economy.
JABU is Nigeria’s first ICT-driven entrepreneurial university which seeks to equip students with entrepreneurial skills irrespective of their basic academic pursuits, in order to make them self-sufficient, self-reliant, competent, and efficient employers of labour and adding value to our national economy.
The Pro-Chancellor made this call during the 2nd Oladele Olashore Memorial Lecture at JABU in Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State at the weekend.
He said, “We are indeed blessed to have Mr Demola Aladekomo, a seasoned entrepreneur on the podium sharing his entrepreneurial journey and success tips with us as the keynote speaker at the 2nd Oladele Olashore Memorial Lecture. From the deep education given to us on entrepreneurship today which is in alignment with the JABU vision, there is no reason why some of you here should start writing job applications after graduation.
“You have been given all the tips, all you need to be a successful entrepreneur just like the Late Oba Oladele Olashore and Mr Aladekomo, our guest speaker. Nothing compares to learning from an individual who discusses a topic of interest from life experience. The guest speaker is a resourceful Nigerian who has contributed immensely to the national economy and still has a lot more to contribute to the growth of this country,” Professor Imevbore said.
Delivering his keynote address entitled “The Entrepreneur as a Nation Builder”, Aladekomo lauded the commitment of the vision bearers of Joseph Ayo Babalola University to equipping undergraduate students with entrepreneurial skills irrespective of their basic academic pursuits.
He said, “It is indeed delightful that Joseph Ayo Babalola University is striving to produce a new generation of youths that are self-sufficient, self-reliant, and competent. Youthful entrepreneurs drive the economy of the United States.
America’s 25.8 million small businesses employ more than 50 percent of the private workforce, generating more than half of its national gross domestic product. Nigerian youths must imbibe same culture of entrepreneurship and stop differentiating between opportunities in the formal and informal, believing the latter is for illiterates. Without an upsurge in youth enterprise, our national economy cannot attain its true potential.”
The Group Managing Director of Chams Plc added that “It is ironic that we have lots of unemployed graduates when there are lots of societal needs that are not being met in the Nigerian market.
“Could it be lack of ideas or the false belief that entrepreneurs are born and not made that keep our youths searching for elusive jobs when the export market for cassava is grossly underserved? The scenario is the same across thriving sub-sectors of the national economy with an increasingly ageing workforce in which opportunities abound for energetic youth and new ideas.
“Entrepreneurs are created through education, experience and mentorship. They were not born with entrepreneurial insight, ability and skills which make them exceptional.
“With the right skills and attitude, any Nigerian youth with ambition and ideas can go far because of the existing limitless opportunities in the market. Nigeria represents an exceptional and extremely exciting opportunity for young and smart entrepreneurs with guts.”
On his part, Professor Sola Fajana, Vice Chancellor, Joseph Ayo Babalola University said “the guest speaker, Mr Aladekomo has treated us to a life inspiring lecture which is more beneficial to the largely youthful audience in attendance. We are going home with message that wherever there is a need, there is need for enterprise; and by satisfying the need, your create value which includes employment and wealth. We are delighted to have Mr Aladekomo here to encourage our community of youths to make a difference just like the late Oba Oladele Olashore whose memory is being honoured today.”
Zinox Technologies Limited, a leading ICT solutions provider in West Africa, has engaged with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) in Abuja, marking a significant step towards advancing innovation and sustainable energy solutions within Nigeria’s tertiary education landscape.
Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh, Zinox Chairman (left) and Arc. Sonny Echono, Executive Secretary, TETFUND (right) after the meeting
Under the theme “Advancing Innovation for a Sustainable Future,” the meeting aimed to establish a collaborative framework for technological transformation.
The Zinox delegation was led by Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh, its chairman, and included key members of the company’s executive management team.
On the TETFUND side, Arc. Sonny Echono, executive secretary, was joined by members of his top management team for the high-level discussions.
The highlight of the visit was the establishment of a strategic partnership between Zinox Technologies and TETFUND to provide renewable energy solutions to universities and polytechnics across Nigeria.
Additionally, Mrs. Kelechi Eze-Okonta, managing director, delivered a comprehensive, world-class presentation on the company’s diverse verticals and advanced ICT services, underscoring the need for intentional policy measures to support indigenous technologies for sustainable economic growth.
The TETFUND team expressed their appreciation for Zinox’s contributions to technology awareness, implementation, and adoption in Africa.
Arc. Sonny Echono, executive secretary of TETFUND, conveyed his deep appreciation for the visit by the Zinox team and commended Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh for his unwavering and impactful contributions to Nigeria’s digital transformation, stating that efforts are underway to establish a framework for effective energy solutions in tertiary institutions.
Highlighting Zinox Technologies’ expertise and proven track record, Arc. Echono expressed optimism about partnering with the company to develop scalable and efficient power solutions for academic institutions.
While both organizations remain committed to implementing innovative initiatives that enhance institutional capacity across the nation’s higher education sector, the visit marks a significant milestone in establishing a strategic partnership to equip Nigeria’s tertiary institutions with the essential technological infrastructure for a sustainable, digitally-driven future.
In a heartfelt tribute, MTN has hailed late Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, an exceptional leader, steady hand and enduring legacy.
Pascal Gabriel Dozie, Former Chairman
In the tribute, MTN said it was deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Dozie, founding chairman of MTN Nigeria.
He passed away at the age of 85
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him” the telecom giant said.
A pioneer, statesman, and titan of industry, Dr. Dozie played a pivotal role in the emergence of mobile telephony in Nigeria and in shaping the MTN Nigeria story.
He brought insight, experience, and leadership at a time when bold vision was essential.
He was instrumental in securing the early support and investment that brought the Y’ello dream to life. On May 16, 2001, he made the first call on the MTN network, a historic moment in Nigeria’s telecommunications journey.
For 18 years, from 2001 to 2019, Dr. Dozie served as Chairman, leading with strength and conviction.
His presence on the Board was unifying. He championed good governance, corporate responsibility, and long-term value, deeply committed to the greater good. In challenging times, he remained a stabilising force.
“His unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential and his dedication to its development were truly inspiring. His leadership at MTN Nigeria laid the foundation for our success, and his legacy will continue to guide us in the years to come,” Karl Toriola, CEO, MTN Nigeria.
Some of his landmark contributions include:
The incorporation of the MTN Nigeria Foundation in 2004 and our commitment to dedicating a percentage of profit after tax to social investments;
The launch of one of Africa’s largest switching centres in 2010;
His significant role in 2015 during critical conversations around the regulatory fine and its resolution;
The introduction of Africa’s first 3G feature phone in 2018;
MTN Nigeria’s listing in 2019 on the premium board of the Nigerian Exchange.
“Dr. Dozie was instrumental in MTN Group’s expansion into Nigeria, providing visionary leadership that has left an indelible mark on our company’s history. His commitment to excellence and integrity set a standard that we continue to uphold,” Ralph Mupita, president & CEO, MTN Group.
His legacy goes well beyond MTN. He believed in Nigeria’s potential and dedicated his life to building a stronger nation.
His impact spanned banking, telecommunications, education, and public service.
He founded Diamond Bank, led the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, and served as Director of the Central Bank of Nigeria, among many other distinguished roles. A generous mentor, he inspired and guided countless individuals who continue to uphold the values he lived by.
He was a quiet revolutionary. He could ease tensions with grace and consistently led with clarity and conviction.
He was warm, principled, and deeply respected by all who encountered him.
Fondly known as PGD, he was honoured with the national awards of Officer and Commander of the Order of the Niger (OON and CON).
Beyond the accolades, what we remember most is the man himself. He was innovative, dedicated, measured, thoughtful and humble.
“We are profoundly grateful for his time with us. His memory will remain a guiding light for MTN, Nigeria’s business community, and everyone who shares his unwavering commitment to progress built on integrity and service” MTN stated
Nigerian Communication Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) in collaboration with Jigawa state government, commenced training of 150 youths on satellite technology and digital communication.
Jane Egerton-Idehen, managing director, NIGCOMSAT limited,
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the training, held at Manpower development Dutse, Jane Egerton-Idehen, managing director, NIGCOMSAT limited, highlighted the role of NIGCOMSAT in driving grassroots innovation in Jigawa state.
She explained that, the training is organised by Nigcomsat supported by Jigawa state government with the theme: “Space Technology for grassroots development”, aimed at empowering youths on digital innovations to create jobs opportunities and boost economy.
“The Nigcomsat youth empowerment programme, Jigawa is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at equipping young minds with cutting-edge knowledge in satellite technology and digital communication”, she said.
The MD maintained that, the program designed to Foster innovation, enhance technical skills and create opportunities for youths in the ever-evolving space-tech industry.
According to her, during the training two key sub-program will be featured, Spacehack 2025 aimed at developing satellite technology to tackle real world challenges in areas like agriculture, disaster management, telecommunications and security issues.
She maintained that, the other part of the training focused on Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) technology, a satellite communication system that uses small antennas to transmit and receive data, voice, and vedio signals.
In his remarks, Dr Habib Muhammad Ubale, director general, Jigawa State Economic Empowerment and Youth employment agency, urged the participants to concentrate, acquire the skills and stepdown the skills to others for better development.
Dr. Habib who is the effort is one of the twelve points agenda of Governor Malam Umar Namadi said, the training will create thousands of jobs, improve economy and reduce security challenges in the state.
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