The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) came alive on Friday, 22nd August 2025, as over 2,500 students gathered at the Obafemi Awolowo 2,500-Capacity Hall for the highly anticipated Turning Certificate to Satisfaction FUTA Entrepreneurship Conference, a landmark event aimed at celebrating and empowering student entrepreneurs. The conference was the grand finale of a 10-week entrepreneurial training program (ENT 302), a compulsory 3-unit course for all 300-level students across FUTA.
Organized with the support of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Kingsrealm Global, Middlesbrough UK, and executed by the LEAD Transformation Initiative (LTI) in partnership with the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CENT), FUTA, the conference brought together academics, entrepreneurs, alumni, and industry leaders for a day of inspiration, mentorship, and competition.
A Vision to Transform Student Entrepreneurs
The vision behind the event was spearheaded by Prophet Titilayo Femi Kings (TFK), the Set Man of CAC Kingsrealm Global and a proud alumnus of FUTA. Having once faced the struggles of combining academic pursuits with entrepreneurial passion, TFK’s burden has been to help students discover and monetize their skills without having to wait until after graduation.
This vision has been nurtured through the Turning Certificate to Satisfaction (TCS) initiative—formerly known as More Than Certificate—which has been running since 2019, empowering FUTA students through training, mentorship, and startup grants. The 2025 edition raised the bar by showcasing over 108 student-owned brands competing for the ₦1 million entrepreneurship grant.
A Colorful Start: Red Carpet, Anthems, and Introductions
The event kicked off with the arrival of participants and volunteers. Over 100 student entrepreneurs were featured in red carpet interviews, proudly showcasing their brands, products, and services to peers and guests.
The conference opened formally with the Nigerian National Anthem and the FUTA anthem, energetically coordinated by a once-upon-a-time student union leader who also doubled as the convener—Prophet TFK. The audience sang with passion, setting the tone for what would become an unforgettable day.
The University’s Public Relations Officer introduced distinguished guests and dignitaries. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike T. Oladiji, was ably represented by the FUTA Alumni President, Engr. Adeyemi Bello, who conveyed the VC’s goodwill and encouragement for students to embrace innovation and job creation.
Inspiring Speeches and Motivational Sessions
In his keynote address, TFK shared his personal story of almost dropping out of FUTA during his 300-level days, until a lecturer encouraged him to continue pursuing both his academics and his passion. His heartfelt story resonated deeply with students, reminding them that their challenges can be stepping stones to greatness.
Representing CENT, Dr. Olugbenga Benjamin Emidun congratulated the students for successfully completing ENT 302. He emphasized that the Entrepreneurship Conference will henceforth become the official conclusion of the course, ensuring students not only learn theory but also practice entrepreneurship in a real-life setting.
Panel Session: Stories Behind the Glory
A highlight of the day was the panel session, anchored by Mr. Oladeji Babalola, CEO of Mobile Trends Limited, alongside TFK. The panelists included:
- CEO of Chikini Money
- CEO of John Kollyns Global Resources, Pastor John Kolawole
- Engr. Adeyemi Bello, FUTA Alumni President
Each panelist shared their entrepreneurial journey, from struggles to breakthroughs, offering students a blend of practical wisdom and inspiration. The recurring message was clear: entrepreneurship requires resilience, creativity, and faith.
Keynote Talk by Mr. Abiodun Folawiyo
The main speaker, Mr. Abiodun Folawiyo, Founder of Shoespeed, captivated the audience with his story. Coming from an academic family—his father a Professor of Accounting—he defied expectations by pursuing his passion for shoemaking and leather works.
He encouraged students to embrace humility, pursue their true passions, and recognize that entrepreneurship is not always linear. His story was a powerful reminder that certificates and classroom knowledge become more valuable when blended with practical skills.
Talent Interlude and Student Performances
The conference was not all business; there was entertainment too. The FUTA Dance Group thrilled the audience with an energetic performance that earned them cash gifts and commendations from guests. This interlude showcased FUTA students’ versatility—not only as entrepreneurs but also as talented creatives.
The Grand Pitch: 5 Finalists Compete for the Crown
From 108 registered applicants, five finalists were selected to pitch their businesses before a panel of judges, including international judges connected from the UK and USA. The finalists were:
- Oluwaseun Johnson Akindutire – Hollux Kreations
- Lydia Oluwaseyi Adedoja – Pizz Treats
- Adeyeye Boluwatife Michael – CampusConnect
- Elizabeth Onuabuchi Ogbonnaya – Luxe Beauty
- Koti Winner Ugomma – MK Naturals
Each finalist presented their business model, value proposition, and growth potential. The pitches reflected creativity, determination, and the entrepreneurial spirit thriving on FUTA’s campus.
Winners and Prize Presentation
After intense deliberation, the judges announced the winners:
- Winner – Oluwaseun Johnson Akindutire (Hollux Kreations) – ₦1,000,000 grant
- 1st Runner-Up – Elizabeth Onuabuchi Ogbonnaya (Luxe Beauty) – ₦500,000
- 2nd Runner-Up – Lydia Oluwaseyi Adedoja (Pizz Treats) – ₦400,000
In addition to the main grant sponsored by CAC Kingsrealm Global, further donations were made:
- ₦200,000 from the CEO of Chikini Money
- ₦200,000 from Mr. Femi Crown (FUTA Alumnus)
- ₦500,000 from the FUTA Alumni Association, announced by its President, Engr. Adeyemi Bello
Winners received their prizes with large-sized dummy cheques and branded T-shirts, symbolizing both recognition and responsibility.
Looking Ahead: The Grace on Grades Conference
The event concluded with an announcement of the Grace on Grades Conference, scheduled for Saturday, 23rd August, and Sunday, 24th August 2025. This segment of the program promises to give students a balanced perspective of the School, the Street, and the Spirit, ensuring holistic development beyond academics and business.
A Legacy of Impact
The 2025 Turning Certificate to Satisfaction FUTA Entrepreneurship Conference was more than a competition—it was a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the entrepreneurial spirit among Nigerian students. With lives touched, businesses supported, and futures reshaped, the event underscored the importance of partnerships between universities, faith-based organizations, and alumni networks in driving student entrepreneurship.
As TFK often emphasizes, the vision is to help students turn their certificates into satisfaction by discovering their passions, building ventures, and creating sustainable impact even before graduation. The conference was, in every sense, a huge success to the glory of God, leaving students inspired and empowered to rise as the next generation of Nigerian innovators and job creators.