STUDENTS of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) have been spurred to sharpen their entrepreneurial skills and nurture their dreams through adequate knowledge.
A renowned business leader, politician, and philanthropist, Mr Valentine Ozigbo said this in his keynote address at the 2023 UNIZIK Entrepreneurship Development programme organised for students by the vice president of the Student Union Government (SUG), held at the Chike Okoli Centre for Entrepreneurship Studies of the institution.
The theme of the programme was ‘Pathway to Possibilities: Nurturing Dreams through Knowledge.’
Ozigbo, the immediate past president and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc and founder of Valentine Chineto Ozigbo (VCO) Foundation, engaged the students in a needs-based dialogue, encouraging them to ask questions pertaining to the theme of the programme.
At the event, the students’ questions spanned across various aspects of Ozigbo’s career trajectory, including managing failure, overcoming hurdles in Nigeria’s challenging business environment, maintaining an active social media presence and his source of motivation.
In his response, Ozigbo, who was recently appointed as a director and leader for Africa on the Board of the World Freestyle Football Association (WFFA), emphasised the significance of hardwork and divine grace in achieving career success.
“Success isn’t just about what you have accomplished in life; it is about the obstacles you have been able to overcome and the dreams you nurture through knowledge,” Ozigbo told the youth audience.
“Remember, the pathway to possibilities is paved with perseverance and learning.
“In the journey of life, understanding your strengths and weaknesses is like having a compass that guides your path.
“Leverage your strengths and relentlessly refine your weaknesses. They are the silent guardians of your growth,” he added.
Highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence, Ozigbo cautioned against underestimating its value compared to intellectual intelligence.
He stressed the need for self-control, adaptability, sociability, and the importance of leaving a positive impression on every individual encountered.
The event also featured the first female Professor of Mass Communication in Nigeria, the current deputy vice chancellor of Paul University Professor Stella Okunna, and other distinguished guests.
The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of an humanitarian award to Mr Valentine Ozigbo, in recognition of his unwavering support for youth capacity building and engagement in Anambra State and beyond.
