FG Launches Entrepreneurship Certification in 14 Universities

The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa.

The Federal Government has introduced a new initiative aimed at transforming Nigerian students into job creators. The Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Business Incubation Certification (EIBIC) programme has officially been launched in 14 federal universities, marking a major shift in Nigeria’s education system. 

What is the EIBIC Programme? 

The EIBIC programme is a mandatory entrepreneurship certification that runs alongside students’ academic degrees. It is designed to equip undergraduates with practical business skills, innovation knowledge, and real-life entrepreneurial experience before graduation. 

According to the Minister of Education, Maruf Alausa, the programme is part of efforts to bridge the gap between education and employability in Nigeria.

“This marks the beginning of a new paradigm where students move from jobseekers to job-creators,” – Minister of Education, Maruf Alausa, 

Universities Currently Participating 

The programme has started in 14 universities, including: 

• University of Lagos 

• Ahmadu Bello University 

• University of Jos 

• University of Port Harcourt 

• Obafemi Awolowo University 

• University of Ibadan 

• University of Nigeria Nsukka 

• Nnamdi Azikiwe University 

• University of Abuja 

• University of Maiduguri 

• Bayero University Kano 

• Uthman Danfodio University 

• University of Benin 

• Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University 

The government plans to expand the programme to: 

• All federal universities by 2027 

• All federal tertiary institutions by 2028 

 Key Benefits of the Programme 

Students enrolled in EIBIC will gain: 

• Business & Innovation Skills – Learn how to start and run a business 

•  Financial Literacy – Understand money, funding, and investments 

• ️ Practical Training – Hands-on experience, not just theory 

• Mentorship & Incubation – Access to experts and business support 

• Funding Opportunities – Access to grants like the Student Venture Capital Fund 

 Why This Programme Matters 

The government introduced this initiative to address rising unemployment and the impact of technology on traditional jobs. 

The programme also aligns with the economic vision of Bola Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on building a knowledge-driven and innovation-led economy. 

 How the Programme Works 

EIBIC follows a structured path throughout your university years: 

1. Year 1: Orientation and introduction to entrepreneurship 

2. Mid-Years: Continuous training and skill development 

3. Final Stage: Business creation, incubation, and mentorship 

By graduation, students are expected to: 

• Launch a business 

• Develop a viable startup idea 

• Gain real entrepreneurial experience 

 How to Be Part of the EIBIC Programme 

If you want to benefit from this opportunity, here’s what to do: 

1. Gain Admission into a Participating School 

Apply to any of the listed universities where the programme is already active. 

2. Participate Actively from Year One 

Since the programme is mandatory, all students will be enrolled—but your level of participation determines your success. 

3. Develop a Business Idea Early 

Start thinking about: 

• A problem you can solve 

• A service or product you can offer 

4. Join Campus Entrepreneurship Programs 

Engage in: 

• Business clubs 

• Innovation hubs 

• School incubation centres 

5. Apply for Student Grants 

Take advantage of funding opportunities like: 

• Student Venture Capital Grant 

• Government and NGO startup support 

 Note: Over 36,000 young Nigerians applied for recent student grants—so early preparation is key. 

 What This Means for Nigerian Students 

This programme is a gamechanger. It shifts education from just getting a certificate to building wealth and creating jobs. 

Instead of waiting for employment after graduation, students now have the tools to: 

• Start businesses early 

• Become financially independent 

• Employ others 

The EIBIC programme is a bold step toward solving unemployment in Nigeria by empowering students with real-world skills. With proper participation, this initiative can produce a new generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders. 

If you are a student—or planning to become one—this is an opportunity you should not ignore.