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In a groundbreaking move to bridge academia with the grassroots, the Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, unveiled its maiden Communiversity Project “Empowering Hands, Transforming Walls” on Thursday, 10th July 2025. This bold initiative, aimed at bringing the university to the heart of the community, began with a transformative outreach in Angwan Lambu, Keffi. Students and facilitators from the Centre trained locals on paint formulation while simultaneously renovating the Madina Mosque. The atmosphere was electric as the Director of the Centre, Prof. Rashidah Funke Olanrewaju, led the vibrant team into action. Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Dr. Halima Doma Kutigi, not only graced the occasion but actively participated in the painting symbolizing unity, service, and shared purpose. The heartwarming gesture stirred deep emotions within the community. The Angwan Head (Mai Angwan) expressed immense gratitude and pride, applauding the university for bringing such a meaningful project directly to the people. Echoing his sentiments, the Imam and Amirah of the Madina Mosque committee extended their heartfelt thanks for making their mosque the first beneficiary of the initiative. The project’s success would not have been possible without the generous support of Senator Ahmad Aliyu Wadada (Sarkin Yakin Keffi), whose donation of a dedicated Communiversity vehicle has set the wheels of change in motion. As the paint dried on the mosque walls, it became clear, this wasn’t just about colour, it was about community, empowerment, and a vision of transformation driven by knowledge and compassion. #Communiversity#NSUK EDC#EDC#NSUK

In a strategic move to strengthen institutional entrepreneurship and innovation capacity, the Entrepreneurship Centre of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna lead by the Deputy Director Dr. Dambo Sanni and his team Squadron Leader Hayatu Idris Bulana also Deputy Director Administration Officer and Mr. Mofi. paid a courtesy and benchmarking visit to the Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) of Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK). Dr. Dambo said the visit was prompted by a strong recommendation from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), which recognized NSUK EDC as a model of excellence in entrepreneurship education, skill acquisition, and community-driven innovation. NSUK EDC: A National Model for Institutional Enterprise Led by the dynamic Professor Rashidah Funke Olanrewaju, NSUK EDC has grown into a nationally recognized centre of innovation, driving youth empowerment, local content development, and university-community integration. Through its flagship initiatives—especially the groundbreaking COMMUNIVERSITY project—the Centre has redefined how universities can be engines of economic and social transformation. The AFIT delegation was on a mission to understudy NSUK EDC’s operations, structure, and impact, with a view to replicating its best practices within AFIT’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. TETFUND’s Endorsement: A Stamp of Excellence TETFUND’s recommendation of NSUK EDC to AFIT underscores the Centre’s growing reputation as a successful and scalable model of institutional entrepreneurship in Nigeria. According to TETFUND, NSUK EDC exemplifies effective use of intervention resources, structured programming, and sustainable community engagement—qualities they believe other institutions should learn from. This endorsement served as a key catalyst for the AFIT team’s decision to visit, observe, and benchmark. An Insightful Tour of Innovation and Impact During the visit, the AFIT team toured various skill acquisition units, observed local product showcases, and engaged with staff and facilitators driving the Centre’s day-to-day operations. They were particularly impressed by NSUK EDC’s hands-on approach to entrepreneurship, its interdisciplinary programming, and the smooth integration of students, facilitators, and community stakeholders into its value chain. One of the most inspiring moments of the visit was learning about the COMMUNIVERSITY initiative, which seeks to bring university resources, knowledge, and innovation directly to local communities through outreach, partnerships, and empowerment programs. A Path Toward Replication and Collaboration The visiting AFIT delegation acknowledged that the NSUK EDC model offers a robust and adaptable framework for fostering innovation within defense-oriented academic settings. They expressed deep appreciation for the knowledge shared and affirmed their intention to replicate the structure within their institution—while also exploring opportunities for collaborative projects and faculty exchange. Building a National Network of Impact-Driven EDCs Professor Rashidah Funke Olanrewaju welcomed the AFIT team and emphasized the need for stronger inter-institutional collaboration across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. She thanked TETFUND for recognizing the work being done at NSUK EDC and reaffirmed her Centre’s readiness to share expertise, support replication, and drive inclusive national development through entrepreneurship. As NSUK EDC continues to rise as a centre of excellence and national model, this visit by AFIT marks another bold step toward building a network of impactful EDCs across Nigerian universities and polytechnics.

In a powerful display of leadership and commitment to youth and community development, Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, representing Nasarawa West Senatorial District, paid a memorable visit to the Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) of Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) on Monday, May 5th, 2025. A Promise Made — A Promise Kept Earlier in January 2025, the management of the EDC, led by its visionary Director, Professor Rashidah Funke Olanrewaju, paid a courtesy visit to Senator Wadada. Their mission? To seek collaboration and support for initiatives geared toward youth empowerment and community development. During that meeting, the Senator promised to visit the Centre and witness firsthand the impressive work being done. True to his word, he fulfilled that promise in grand style. Strengthening Ties with the University Upon his arrival, Senator Wadada first visited the Vice Chancellor and other key members of the University’s management team. He used the opportunity to restate his firm belief in human capital development and emphasized the importance of investing in youth-driven initiatives to build stronger communities. Seeing is Believing: Tour of EDC The highlight of the visit was Senator Wadada’s tour of the Entrepreneurship Development Centre. The Senator was visibly impressed by the range of skills and products on display—from locally made crafts and innovations to digital and entrepreneurial projects. He praised the Centre for its well-coordinated programs and commended Professor Olanrewaju for her foresight, dedication, and leadership. According to him, what he saw was not just inspiring—it was a clear sign that the university is playing an active role in solving real-world problems. Unveiling “COMMUNIVERSITY” – Taking the University to the Community During the visit, the EDC introduced its flagship project: COMMUNIVERSITY—a bold vision to bring the knowledge, resources, and innovation of the University to the heart of local communities. The project aims to break the barriers between academia and society by equipping everyday people with skills that drive economic growth. To help bring this vision to life, Professor Olanrewaju requested support in the form of an 18-seater bus to aid the Centre’s outreach programs. Senator’s Generosity: Donation of a Space Bus Moved by the passion and impact of the Centre’s work, Senator Wadada donated a Seat Alhambra space bus to the EDC. His donation represents a major boost to the Centre’s mobility and logistics and is a clear sign of his support for sustainable, community-focused development. New Partnership: Community Training Sponsored by Senator Wadada In another major development during the visit, Senator Ahmed Wadada officially flagged off a training partnership with the EDC. Under this new initiative, the Centre will provide entrepreneurship and vocational training to members of the local community, fully sponsored by the Senator. The training will cover a wide range of high-impact skills aimed at improving self-reliance, income generation, and economic empowerment. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the Centre’s goal to extend its impact beyond the university walls and directly empower communities. Advice for Growth: Standardization and Regulation In addition to his donation and sponsorship, Senator Wadada encouraged the EDC to take the next step in formalizing its operations. He advised the Centre to register with key national regulatory bodies such as: Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) These registrations, he said, would ensure quality assurance, brand credibility, and long-term sustainability for the Centre’s growing portfolio of products and services. Looking Ahead Senator Wadada’s visit was not only symbolic but strategic—it reinforced the growing synergy between government leaders and institutions committed to youth and community development. With the launch of COMMUNIVERSITY, the donation of a mobility vehicle, and the flag-off of a community training initiative, the EDC is well-positioned to scale its impact. The Director of the Centre, Professor Rashidah Funke Olanrewaju, expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the Senator for his support, describing the partnership as a turning point in the Centre’s mission to drive innovation, build skills, and create sustainable development across Nasarawa State. Stay tuned for more updates on the COMMUNIVERSITY movement, upcoming community trainings, and other transformative projects from NSUK EDC!

The management of the Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, led by Director Prof. Rashidah Funke O. and her deputy Dr. Taibat Ibrahim, paid a visit to the Emir of Keffi on January 31, 2024. The purpose of the visit was to inform the Emir about the EDC’s plan to extend its services to the host community in Keffi Local Government Council of Nasarawa State. The Director condoled with the Emir over the loss of his wife and prayed for her soul. She then explained that the EDC aims to train youths and women in various skills to reduce unemployment in the society. The centre offers over 30 skills, including technical and soft skills, such as kilishi and suya production, spices, fishery, shoemaking, detergent production, laundry, and throw pillows. The Emir, Dr. Shehu Chindo Yamusa III, expressed his happiness with the visit and praised the EDC’s empowerment initiatives. He urged the EDC management to collaborate with the skills acquisition centre he established in Keffi, which is coordinated by hajiya Ramatu. The Emir also suggested partnering with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to train corps members and utilize their facilities for effective skills acquisition programs. In conclusion, the Emir promised his full support for the initiative, which focuses on reducing unemployment in society. He welcomed the EDC management to visit him anytime and appreciated the steps they have taken, wishing them a successful tenure.

Mr. Hassan Abdulkarim, the Head of Training at the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) in Nasarawa State, visited the Entrepreneurship Development Centre at Nasarawa State University, Keffi. He was warmly received by Director Prof. Rashidah Funke O. Mr. Abdulkarim explained that the purpose of his visit was to discuss empowerment training programs for youths and women in Keffi and its environs. He highlighted that ITF is a federal government scheme that provides training and grants for startups. The ITF has chosen the Entrepreneurship Development Centre and Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa as the centers for the program, which will commence soon. The program will allow participants to choose their preferred skills, and the center will provide resource persons for the program. The ITF will cover the costs of facility usage and facilitators’ stipends. Director Prof. Rashidah Funke O. thanked the ITF for identifying the Entrepreneurship Development Centre for the program. She emphasized that the center’s goal is to promote entrepreneurship and training, focusing on soft skills and technical skills. The center has facilities that can accommodate the program, and Director Prof. Rashidah promised to assemble competent facilitators for effective program execution. The Director urged Mr. Abdulkarim to communicate the program’s start date and details to the center, considering the center’s busy schedule. Mr. Abdulkarim assured the Director that he would communicate the details once they were ready to launch the program. The visit concluded with the Director thanking Mr. Abdulkarim and wishing him a safe trip.

The Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) is set to receive a fresh new look, thanks to a recent directive from the Director. Facilitators Titus and Sladder have been working on a beautiful paint formulation to give the centre a vibrant and welcoming appearance. With the Vice Chancellor’s visit expected anytime soon, the centre is gearing up to make a great impression. Thank you paint making unit 👍

The Director of the Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC), Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), led his team on a strategic visit to the Faculty of Agriculture, Shabu Annex. The purpose of the visit was to formally introduce the EDC leadership to the faculty’s Entrepreneurship Skill Acquisition Coordinator and gain insights into how entrepreneurship practicals are conducted within the faculty. During the meeting, the Director commended Dr. Luka, the coordinator, along with the facilitators, for their dedication and contributions to entrepreneurship training. He further urged them to intensify their efforts, emphasizing that strengthening entrepreneurship education is a key driver for societal development and economic growth in Nigeria. The Director also highlighted key developments at the EDC, including the automation of its processes, staff revalidation, and the introduction of new skill-based programs focusing on soft skills such as web development, content creation, and video editing. Before engaging with the faculty’s coordinator, the Director had the privilege of meeting and exchanging pleasantries with the Dean of the Faculty Prof. S.A. Okunsebor. Following the discussions, the EDC team took the opportunity to explore the Department of Forestry and Wildlife, where they encountered a unique conservation effort featuring trees tagged with matriculation numbers, as well as wildlife species such as crocodiles and monkeys. The faculty’s representatives explained that the forest houses tree species representing nearly all of North Central Nigeria’s flora. The visit concluded with a group photograph, marking a productive engagement aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship training within the university.

The Director of the Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC), Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Prof. Rashidah Funke Olanrewaju recently paid a courtesy visit to the Window on America Keffi located within the university library. This significant visit marked a strategic engagement aimed at fostering collaboration between the two centers. The EDC Director was warmly received by Mr. Wilson Oserada, the Director of the Window on America Keffi, who shared insights about the center’s activities, including its dedication to promoting knowledge sharing, skill development, and capacity building among students and the wider community. During the meeting, both directors explored avenues for potential collaboration in the areas of practical-oriented entrepreneurial training, soft skills development, and knowledge sharing. Discussions centered on leveraging the resources and expertise of both centers to equip students and aspiring entrepreneurs with hands-on skills and innovative ideas needed to thrive in today’s competitive environment. The partnership seeks to create a robust platform for capacity building that empowers individuals to become self-reliant, creative, and solution-driven. The visit underscores EDC’s commitment to broadening its impact through strategic partnerships that promote entrepreneurial growth and development. The collaboration with Window on America Keffi aligns with EDC’s mission of fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and practical skill acquisition. This partnership promises to be a beacon of empowerment, driving innovation, and creating opportunities for students and community members alike.#nsuk#nsukedc#windowamericakeffi

Alhamdulillah, the just-concluded Research Exhibition Fair at NSUK was a remarkable success, and I am thrilled to announce that the Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) emerged as 2nd Place Winners! 🎉 This was a golden opportunity to showcase the diverse talents and skills nurtured at the Centre, from soft skills to technical innovations: ✅ Recycling university waste – transforming waste into wealth! ✅ Automation of Entrepreneurship – a highlight presentation by our skilled soft skills officers. ✅ Tailoring official university attires – lab coats, security uniforms, cleaners’ uniforms, and corporate outfits proudly designed and created by our tailoring unit. ✅ Soap and organic body care products – locally made and presented by our creative teams. All units at the Centre participated, displaying exceptional teamwork and dedication, which truly made this achievement possible. The event was graced by His Excellency, the Governor of Nasarawa State, ably represented by the Commissioner for Education. Other dignitaries included the Director of NTDA and the esteemed Prof. Zainab Gobir, among others. A heartfelt THANK YOU to my amazing staff for their unwavering commitment and hard work. Together, we continue to raise the bar and make EDC and NSUK proud. 💪 From innovation to transformation – we move forward! – Prof. Rashidah F. Olanrewaju Director

As the director of the EDC, I had the opportunity to visit the National Directorate of Employment in Abuja with our Honourable Vice-Chancellor Prof Saadatu Hassan Liman , Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administration Prof Lagi, the university bursar Alhaji Murtala, and other team members. This courtesy visit aimed to explore potential collaborations, particularly in skill acquisition initiatives. The Director General, H.E Silas Ali Agara, a prominent figure and former Deputy Governor from Nasarawa State, has a strong relationship with the Vice-Chancellor, which could facilitate a renewed partnership between our university and the NDE. This collaboration has the potential to significantly contribute to national development.