The Federal Government has announced plans to extend its Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Business Incubation Certification (EIBIC) programme to all federal universities nationwide by 2027, as part of efforts to boost innovation and tackle youth unemployment.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, disclosed this in Abuja on Friday during the launch of the initiative supported by Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).
According to the minister, the programme is already being expanded, with 14 additional universities currently on board, while all federal universities, alongside some polytechnics and colleges of education, are expected to join by next year.
He added that by 2028, every federal tertiary institution in the country would be fully integrated into the scheme.
Alausa explained that the EIBIC programme adopts a structured, multi-level approach that introduces students to entrepreneurship early in their academic journey and gradually builds their capacity.
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Students are exposed to foundational skills from their first year, with progressive development through subsequent levels, culminating in business incubation, mentorship, and venture creation before graduation.
He stressed that the initiative is designed to move entrepreneurship beyond theory, describing it as a practical, hands-on experience aimed at driving innovation and real economic impact.
The minister noted that the programme would not only benefit students but also contribute to national development by reducing unemployment, promoting productivity, and fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
He also highlighted the introduction of a student venture capital grant launched in December, which provides up to ₦50 million to support promising student-led businesses across both public and private institutions.
In addition, 65 innovators have been shortlisted from over 30,000 applicants under the grant scheme, marking a significant step in advancing student-driven enterprise and innovation nationwide.
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