***Calls for Strategic Investments to Build Nigeria’s Global Business Leaders
Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has called on governments, corporate organizations, and philanthropists to rethink education as a tool for wealth creation, innovation, and national transformation. He emphasized that only a strategic investment in education can produce Nigerian billionaires capable of competing globally.
Speaking at the 29th convocation of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado Ekiti, where he was conferred with a Doctor of Law (Honoris Causa), Bamidele insisted that education must liberate minds, not instill fear. He argued that Nigeria’s economic growth depends on an education system that fosters creativity and problem-solving.
“When I talk about quality education, I mean one that empowers young people to innovate, create, and lead industries,” he said. “This is how global giants like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg emerged. Nigeria must take the same path.”
Bamidele stressed the need to shift from theoretical learning to practical, globally relevant skills. He called for increased funding to build a globally competitive education system, Strategic partnerships between public and private sectors to drive innovation and a shift in mindset that sees education as a tool for national development, not just a routine obligation.
The Vice-Chancellor of EKSU, Prof. Ayodele Joseph, praised Bamidele for his role in securing increased funding for the university and facilitating projects like hostels for medical students, a mini stadium, and an FM Radio station.
Bamidele concluded with a challenge to policymakers: “We must stop treating education as an afterthought. If we truly want a Nigeria that competes globally, the transformation begins in our classrooms.”