United Nigeria Airlines CEO Advocates for Entrepreneurship in Universities

Prof Obiora Okonkwo, the Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, called on Nigerian universities to prioritize entrepreneurship and practical skills development during Veritas University’s 15th convocation ceremony in Abuja. He emphasized that graduates should be equipped to create jobs rather than solely seek employment.

Okonkwo advocated for the integration of entrepreneurship education into all academic departments, including medicine, law, engineering, and the sciences. He argued that the higher education system should focus on equipping students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and mindset for self-reliance and national development.

Okonkwo, a professor of entrepreneurship, shared his personal experience of establishing a business while still a student and stated that entrepreneurial training should commence early in students' academic journeys. He acknowledged that entrepreneurship may not be suitable for every graduate but expressed his willingness to guide interested students.

He also called for stronger collaboration between universities and industries, particularly through internship programs to provide practical experience.