Environmental Design Students Host ground-breaking Leadership and Entrepreneurship Colloquium

By Abduljalil Attahir (400lvl Mass Comm) and Ayoola Yesirat Taiwo (200lvl Mass Comm)

In a compelling display of academic and professional synergy, the Environmental Design Students Association (EDSA) of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, hosted a high-profile Leadership and Entrepreneurship Colloquium on August 24, 2024. The event, held under the theme "Breaking Barriers, Embracing Change and Unleashing Potentials," brought together various speakers from academia, government, and the private sector.

The colloquium, which took place at Theatre AB in the Faculty of Environmental Design, saw an impressive turnout of students, faculty members, and distinguished guests. Prof. Abubakar Abdullahi, Dean of the Faculty and EDSA Patron, chaired the occasion, with Dr. Abdullahi Balarabe representing him at the event.

Dr. Mansir Dodo FNIOB, Director of Ahmadu Bello University Consultancy Services (ABUCONS), delivered a rousing keynote address that set the tone for the day's proceedings. The event featured an illustrious panel of guest speakers, including Comr. Usman Hayatu Mazadu PhD., Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA), and Hon. Bello Aliyu Hayatu, Special Adviser to the Kaduna State Governor on Projects and Infrastructure.

In his address, Comr. Usman Hayatu Mazadu emphasized the critical role of self-esteem and inclusivity in leadership. "You're the innovator and the innovation," he declared, encouraging students to harness their potential for societal transformation.

Comr. Bukar Sulaiman, a former ABUSRC President and current ABU lecturer, delved into the essence of moral leadership. He highlighted the challenges leaders face in maintaining ethical standards and stressed the importance of considering stakeholder welfare in decision-making processes.

The entrepreneurship segment of the colloquium was particularly noteworthy. Dr. Ahmadu Jibril, a pharmacist, provided practical insights on monetizing ideas. He advised students to view societal problems as opportunities and to use competition as a growth catalyst rather than a hindrance.

Comr. Abubakar Sani Abdullahi, CEO of The Life We Deserve Foundation, outlined concrete steps for achieving financial and entrepreneurial independence, resonating strongly with the student audience.

The event also celebrated excellence, with awards presented to Dr. Mansir Dodo, Comr. Bukar Sulaiman, and Comr. Abubakar Sani Abdullahi for their contributions to academia and the association. In a touching display of talent and entrepreneurial spirit, Marcus Jonah, a 400-level Fine Arts student, presented a portrait of Comr—Usman Hayatu Mazadu, which the Executive Secretary generously rewarded.

EDSA President Ismail Bello Turaki expressed his motivation for organizing the event, stating, "Many of our students are already leaders in their businesses and organizations. This colloquium aims to provide them with the additional push and initiative they need to excel further."

Pharm. Amadu Jibril, A lecturer, Former Special Adviser on Students and Youth Engagement, and Former SRC President of Ahmadu Bello University also graced the occasion and shared his insights on entrepreneurship development, targeting audience, location, innovation in business.

The Leadership and Entrepreneurship Colloquium not only provided valuable insights but also created a unique platform for networking between students and established professionals. As the event concluded, it was clear that its impact would resonate far beyond the walls of Ahmadu Bello University, potentially shaping the next generation of Nigerian leaders and entrepreneurs.

This landmark event underscores the growing emphasis on practical, industry-linked education in Nigerian universities, positioning Ahmadu Bello University at the forefront of this crucial educational evolution.