The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has hosted the inaugural edition of its Entrepreneurial Hangout Event (1.0)—an initiative designed to foster innovation, promote self-reliance, and embed entrepreneurship into the university’s learning culture.
Held on Friday, October 31, 2025, at the Tayo Aderinokun Lecture Theatre, the event brought together students, thought leaders, and industry experts under the theme “Fostering an Entrepreneurial Mindset in the University Ecosystem.” It was jointly organized by the Dr. Mike Adenuga Professorial Chair in Entrepreneurship Studies and the UNILAG MBA Students’ Association.
In his remarks, Prof. Taiwo Osipitan (SAN), Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dr. Mike Adenuga Professorial Chair, emphasized the importance of identifying opportunities in one’s surroundings.
> “Sometimes you may smell opportunity, but you are not seeing it,” he said, urging students to stay alert, innovative, and proactive in value creation.
The Occupier of the Professorial Chair, Prof. Olufemi O. Olayemi, explained that the initiative was conceived to cultivate entrepreneurial thinking among students and staff. He noted that UNILAG is steadily evolving into an “entrepreneurial university” — one that not only produces employable graduates but also empowers innovators and job creators.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, the Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. ’Muyiwa Falaiye, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to enterprise development. He encouraged students to leverage such platforms to transform creative ideas into impactful ventures that drive social and economic progress.
A major highlight of the event was a panel discussion moderated by UNILAG alumna and novelist Chioma Ilozumba. Panelists included:
HRM Oba Aina Oladipo, CEO, Signet Investments & Securities Ltd.
Mr. Lanre Longe, Managing Director, Mackym Consult Ltd.
Dr. (Mrs.) Yewande O. Ntekim-Rex, Deputy Director, Confucius Institute & ENACTUS Coordinator, UNILAG.
Dr. Adedeji Adeniyi, Group Managing Director, Toptech Group.
The experts explored topics such as overcoming business startup challenges, integrating artificial intelligence into modern enterprises, funding opportunities for young entrepreneurs, and the role of mentorship and networking in business success.
Participants described the session as inspiring and enlightening, noting that it provided valuable insights into real-world entrepreneurial experiences. Many students expressed renewed confidence in pursuing business ventures and contributing to Nigeria’s economic transformation through innovation and problem-solving.
Beyond discussions, the Entrepreneurial Hangout (1.0) served as a bridge between academia and industry—reinforcing UNILAG’s drive to nurture visionary thinkers, innovators, and self-reliant graduates capable of turning ideas into impactful enterprises.
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