The Chief Executive Officer of Alhaja Theultimate Computer Services (ATCS) and Head of Research and Innovation at the Advanced Technical Innovation and Research Centre (ATIRC) Ms Bashirat Bamigboye, has urged students in Ogun State to embrace leadership, technical innovation, and entrepreneurship as essential tools for nation-building.
Bamigboye made the call yesterday while addressing participants at the National Leadership Summit organised by the National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS), where he served as the Special Guest.

Speaking on the theme, “The Future of Governance Begins on Campus: Harnessing Student Leadership for Nation Building,” she described the summit as timely, emphasising the critical role of young people in shaping Nigeria’s political, economic, and technological future.

The technology expert challenged the popular notion that youths are merely the leaders of tomorrow, insisting that students already have a significant role to play in national development.

“You are not just the leaders of tomorrow; you are the leaders of today,” she said, urging students to recognise their capacity to influence society positively through responsible leadership and innovative thinking.

Bamigboye said that governance extends beyond occupying political offices, noting that its principles begin on university and college campuses through accountability in student unions, responsibility in academic activities, and civic engagement within host communities.

She further stressed that sustainable nation-building in the 21st century depends not only on effective leadership but also on technical innovation and entrepreneurship.

Bamigboye, from her professional experience at ATIRC and ATCS, explained how advanced technical research and commercial technology solutions could be combined to address practical challenges and create opportunities for economic growth.

“At ATIRC, we constantly examine how advanced technical research can solve practical, real-world problems, while at ATCS, we implement digital solutions commercially. My challenge to you is to bring these two worlds together on your campuses,” she said.

The technology entrepreneur encouraged the students to leverage digital tools, including laptops and smartphones, alongside their intellectual abilities, to develop innovative solutions capable of transforming Ogun State and Nigeria at large.

She noted that the growing digital economy presents opportunities for young people to create value through their skills, creativity, and capacity to solve problems, regardless of their age or background.

Bamigboye also urged the students not to wait for ideal conditions before pursuing their ambitions, advising them to use their time on campus to build meaningful networks, cultivate integrity, develop leadership skills, and transform academic research into viable business ventures.

According to her, combining the discipline required for student leadership with technical innovation and entrepreneurship would empower young Nigerians to become active contributors to national development.

Bamigboye commended the leadership of NAOSS, particularly the Office of the National Vice President, for organising what he described as an impactful summit. He also expressed appreciation to the association for inviting him to participate as the Special Guest.

She charged the students to demonstrate initiative, conduct meaningful research, embrace innovation, and uphold the highest standards of integrity in their leadership responsibilities.

Bamigboye, however, maintained that Nigeria’s future depends significantly on the ability of its young people to translate their ideas, knowledge, and leadership potential into practical solutions that promote sustainable development.