Segun Atanda/
Osun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Bunmi Jenyo, has called for a stronger alliance between universities and industries to drive economic transformation in Nigeria.
Speaking at the 2025 University Research Fair held at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Jenyo delivered a keynote address that both educated and challenged stakeholders to reimagine the role of academic research in national development.
The fair, which brought together scholars, researchers, students, and industry leaders, served as a platform to showcase groundbreaking projects and foster collaborations across sectors.
Held at the Oduduwa Basement of OAU, the event highlighted how research could be transformed into real-world solutions that address Nigeria’s pressing developmental challenges.
In his presentation titled, ‘Research Commercialisation in Nigeria: Mainstreaming Universities and Industries Collaboration for National Development,’ Jenyo emphasised that innovation must become central to Nigeria’s growth strategy.
“In today’s rapidly evolving world, innovation is no longer optional—it is essential,” he stated. “Nigeria boasts a wealth of intellectual capital. Our universities are vibrant ecosystems producing cutting-edge research, innovative ideas, and potentially transformative technologies.”
Drawing on global examples, the Commissioner noted that successful economies have been those that integrated governments, academic institutions, and industries—what he described as the “Triple Helix Model.”
He explained that such integration has led to breakthroughs in technology, medicine, agriculture, and manufacturing, thereby fostering sustainable development.
“Research institutions like Obafemi Awolowo University are central to this transformation,” he said. “Whether in agriculture, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, or business development, the fusion of disciplines can drive economic growth, job creation, and national prosperity.”
Jenyo also highlighted Osun State’s proactive steps toward achieving this vision. He revealed that the state government, in partnership with Osun State University, has developed an Industrial Development Policy Document.
The policy, he said, was designed to promote economic transformation, wealth creation, and poverty reduction through strategic collaboration with the academia and industry stakeholders.
“We want Osun to become a hub of commercial, industrial, and economic activity in Southwestern Nigeria and beyond,” he declared. “With effective partnerships, we can unlock our research labs and empower them to drive real development.”
The Commissioner further revealed that several industrial initiatives are underway in the state, all requiring strong academic and industry involvement. These initiatives, he said, are aimed at making Osun an investment destination of choice in Nigeria.
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