Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola has concluded the first international conference of its newly established Business School, participants discussed business development and ways to support inclusive economic growth. The sessions took place on 28 and 29 September 2026.
Guests and participants arrived on Sunday, 27 September 2026. Lecture Theatre I at the College of Medical Sciences, MAU was the conference venue.
Business School Development
The conference brought together scholars and entrepreneurs, government representatives and policymakers also took part. MAU linked the event to its plans for advanced business education and executive training.
The Business School's work also covers entrepreneurship and leadership development, with professional training and industry engagement forming part of its remit.
Professor Ibrahim Danjuma, Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, said the Business School could strengthen MAU's contribution to business development and economic growth. He thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibrahim Umar, for approving and supporting its establishment.
The Pioneer Director, Professor Bashir Ahmad Daneji, welcomed participants and acknowledged the work of the Local Organising Committee. He also thanked the Vice-Chancellor for supporting the School.
University and Business Representatives
Professor Iliyasu Audu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Chairman of the School's Academic and Professional Certification Board, encouraged the university community and other stakeholders to contribute to the Business School's development.
Mal. Jamilu Yusuf Dan Umma, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Adamawa Business School, expressed readiness to work with MAU on shared interests in business education and entrepreneurship. Professional development was another area of common interest.
The guest of honour, Alh. Abba Aliyu Abubakar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification Agency, was represented by Engr. Joro Sallau. The representative discussed the role of reliable energy in economic activity and highlighted the agency's 5-megawatt solar electricity plant at MAU.
Professor Ibrahim Umar declared the conference open, he thanked the guests and speakers and reaffirmed the university's support for business education and wider engagement with industry.
Lead Papers and Keynote Address
Professor Isaac Ediba, Dean of Students at Gombe State University, presented the first lead paper, "Nigerian Economy and Society: Reducing Poverty through Small-Scale Businesses". The paper examined how small businesses can reduce poverty and support wider economic participation.
The second lead paper came from Professor Jibril Abdulsalam, Director of the Entrepreneurship Centre at Nasarawa State University. His presentation examined new approaches to business and sustainable development, including the role of digital systems in inclusive growth within Nigeria and beyond.
Professor Helen Afang Andow delivered the keynote address virtually, she is a Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Kaduna State University and Pro-Chancellor of Unique Open University, Lagos. Her address considered digital intelligence and sustainable business approaches as parts of inclusive economic development.
Business School Engagement
Participants exchanged ideas and formed professional networks during the conference, discussions covered practical business approaches and the role of entrepreneurship in economic development.
MAU expects the Business School to deepen its engagement with the public and private sectors. The School is also expected to contribute to the development of business leaders and entrepreneurs, alongside professionals and policymakers.
