The launch of the Okobi Student Club at the University of Agriculture in Umuagwo, Imo, sets a historic precedent for youth entrepreneurship and economic growth

The University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences in Umuagwo, Imo State, has unveiled the Okobi Student Club, a transformative initiative designed to foster entrepreneurship and economic growth.

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This student-driven innovation, backed by Governor Hope Uzodimma, seeks to create jobs and wealth through structured cooperatives aimed at encouraging local economic participation.

The Okobi acronym, representing the One Kindred One Business Initiative, is a grassroots economic development program that encourages communities, schools, and extended family groups to establish and operate registered businesses.

This initiative aims to foster collective ownership, providing sustainable avenues for economic prosperity and creating job opportunities in local areas.

Speaking at the unveiling last week, Imo State Governor Uzodimma, represented by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Victor Nwachukwu, commended the university’s leadership for aligning with the state government’s vision of economic self-sufficiency and youth empowerment.

“I commend the management of this institution for aligning with the vision of the Imo State Government, which is aimed at economic self-sufficiency and youth empowerment.

Governor Uzodimma’s bold initiative is aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, creativity, and self-reliance among Imo people, including our undergraduates,” said Nwachukwu.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Christopher Eze, expressed his profound appreciation to Governor Uzodimma for his visionary leadership and direct support for the Okobi initiative.

He highlighted that the launch was in response to a directive from the Governor, which was coordinated by the Office of the Chief Economic Adviser, spearheaded by Mrs. Jovita Agwu and Professor Kenneth Amaechi.

“What we have begun here today is not just the inauguration of a club — it is the birth of a culture of enterprise and innovation. Our students will no longer wait for jobs; they will create them.

They will not only compete in the labour market but will contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic transformation,” said Professor Eze.

The initiative is designed to cultivate a culture of entrepreneurship and sustainable development, positioning the university as a hub for young innovators.

With strong backing from the state government, the university aims to harness the energy and creativity of its student body, turning it into a beacon of economic growth in the Southeast.

As part of the university’s broader strategy, the initiative will incorporate workshops, research-driven innovation, and inter-institutional collaboration, all focused on ensuring a long-lasting entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Dr. Desmond Echeta, Acting Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship Studies, presented a roadmap for the club’s activities, describing the centre as a hub of creativity and idea incubation.

The event also featured inspiring testimonies from students, who shared their entrepreneurial experiences and discussed the challenges they had overcome. These stories ignited the audience’s enthusiasm and strengthened their resolve to embark on their own entrepreneurial ventures.

“The Centre for Entrepreneurship Studies is committed to guiding students from concept to market-ready enterprises. This initiative is more than just a platform; it’s a stepping stone towards a brighter future for all students involved,” said Dr. Echeta.

The Okobi Student Club’s launch marks a turning point in the educational and economic landscape of Imo State, setting a historic precedent for youth entrepreneurship and development.

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Through this initiative, the university hopes to empower young Nigerians to become job creators and leaders in economic transformation.