VC backs NextGen, sets up committee
By Isaac Lewu
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has thrown his full weight behind the NextGen Innovation Challenge 2026, describing it as a timely platform that would unlock the creative potential of young innovators and position the University as a hub for cutting edge research and enterprise.
While receiving representatives of the Technology Incubation Centre (TIC), Ilorin in his office last Monday (March 16, 2026), the Vice Chancellor commended the initiative and pledged the readiness of the University to actively participate and promote the programme across its academic community.
Prof. Egbwole noted that the NextGen Innovation Challenge aligns with the University’s strategic vision of fostering innovation, research excellence, and industry collaboration, adding that such initiatives would further strengthen the reputation of the institution as a leading centre of academic distinction.
The Vice Chancellor assured the delegation that the University would mobilise its staff and students to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the programme, particularly in the areas of technology-driven entrepreneurship and global partnerships.
Prof. Egbewole also approved the constitution of a joint committee between the University of Ilorin and the NextGen Innovation platform that would coordinate participation and ensure effective engagement.
He announced that the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Technology and Innovation (RTI), Prof. Muhtar Adeiza Etudaiye would be the Chairman of the Committee, with members drawn from relevant units of the University and representatives of the Technology Incubation Centre.
The Vice Chancellor explained that the Committee would be responsible for driving awareness, facilitating applications, and providing the necessary institutional support to participants from the University.
Prof. Egbewole emphasised that the University’s research ecosystem must be leveraged to produce practical solutions that address societal challenges, noting that platforms like NextGen would serve as catalysts for impactful innovations.
The Manager of the Technology Incubation Centre (TIC), Engr Abdulfatai K. Yusuf, described the NextGen Innovation Challenge 2026 as a strategic opportunity for the University community to connect with national and global innovation ecosystems. He noted that the programme, facilitated through the Technology Incubation Centre, Ilorin, under the supervision of the National Board for Technology Incubation, is designed to attract innovators, startups, and researchers with transformative ideas.
Engr. Yusuf explained that the initiative is not limited to technology experts alone but is open to students and staff across diverse disciplines who have innovative, problem-solving concepts.
He emphasised that the challenge seeks to empower Nigerian innovators by providing access to mentorship, funding opportunities, and exposure to international partnerships, thereby aligning with the broader goal of building globally competitive solutions.
The TIC Manager further highlighted key timelines outlined in the programme flyer, noting that applications commenced on February 26, 2026, and will close on March 28, 2026.
Speaking on implementation, Engr. Yusuf assured all that the University’s Technology Centre would serve as the central coordinating hub for all NextGen-related activities. He added that the Centre would organise sensitisation campaigns, application support clinics, and technical advisory sessions to guide interested participants through the submission process and enhance their chances of success.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Centre to work closely with the joint committee constituted by the Vice Chancellor, stating that deliberate efforts would be made to ensure strong participation from the University of Ilorin.
Engr. Yusuf expressed confidence that with the right support and engagement, the institution would produce outstanding entries capable of competing at national and international levels.
Also present were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Prof. Moji Taibat Bakare- Odunola; the Deputy Vice Chancellor(Research Technology & Innovation), Prof. Muhtar Adeiza Etudaiye; the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Prof. J. O. Olaoye; the Deputy Registrar, Vice Chancellor’s Office, Mrs Azeezat Ibrahim; the Deputy Director Corporate Affairs and University Protocol Officer, Mr Segun Alabi and the crew of the Technology Incubation Centre.
