Nigeria's Flagship University-Based SME Fair
Coordinated under the auspices of the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation & Strategic Partnerships — RISP) and led by the UI SME FAIR Convener.
Prof. Oluyemisi Bamgbose, SAN
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation & Strategic Partnerships)
Providing institutional leadership, driving commercial innovation, research translation, and strategic industry partnerships for the University of Ibadan.
Dr. Samuel Orekoya
Convener, University of Ibadan SME Fair
Spearheading the strategic vision, organization, and ecosystem convergence for Nigeria's premier university-based SME trade and innovation showcase.
Fostering Town-Gown Synergy & Empowering Next-Gen SMEs
The University of Ibadan SME Fair bridges academic innovation, small business development, and market access.
SMEs are the indispensable engine of Nigeria's economy, accounting for over 80% of employment and 48% of GDP. However, critical challenges—such as access to finance, infrastructure deficits, market barriers, soaring costs, and multiple taxation—hinder growth.
In response, the maiden University of Ibadan SME Summit was held on November 7, 2019, uniting researchers, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Industrial Training Fund (ITF), financial institutions, and entrepreneurs.
Following its success, the Vice-Chancellor approved the summit as an annual fair to deepen Town-Gown Synergy (T-GS). Coordinated continuously by the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships — RISP), it creates a premier platform where innovation meets opportunity.
Three Pillars Driving the UI SME Fair
Consolidating Town-Gown Synergy (T-GS)
Bridging the gap between academic research and commercial enterprise for sustainable human capital development.
Research Translation
Ensuring research outputs from the University of Ibadan provide practical solutions to the core needs of the SME sector and the Nigerian public.
Empowering Next-Gen Entrepreneurs
Equipping prospective graduates and studentpreneurs with networking, mentorship, and commercial opportunities to thrive in the modern economy.
Fair Evolution & Key Themes
Inaugural UI SME Summit
Held on November 7, 2019. VC approved translating the summit into an annual fair to foster deeper Town-Gown Synergy (T-GS).
Moving the SME Glocal Community Forward through Technology Innovation and Creativity
Focused on leveraging technology for operational efficiency and inspiring studentpreneurs.
Inspiring Next-Gen SMEs: Igniting Ideas, Innovations and Building Resilience
Aims at positioning prospective graduates and budding entrepreneurs to take up emerging opportunities.
Ready to Connect, Exhibit or Participate?
Whether you're a small business owner booking a booth, a student entering the pitch or cooking battle, or a visitor coming to discover Nigerian products — there is a place for you at UI SME Fair 2026.