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!
