Oyo Government Partners UI to Boost SMEs with AI Technology
The Oyo State Government has announced a partnership with the Department of Marketing and Consumer Studies at the University of Ibadan (UI) to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) in accelerating the growth of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) across the state.
Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Commerce and Cooperatives, Chief Adebisi Adeniyi, expressed readiness for the collaboration while hosting UI lecturers at his office in the Secretariat, Ibadan. The delegation was led by the Head of Department, Dr. Samuel Orekoya, an Associate Professor, and included Dr. Oluseyi Ajayi, Dr. Philip Ogunode, Dr. Adeola Ayodele, Dr. Oluwakemi Oreagba, and Mrs. Ibukun Joledo.
Dr. Orekoya stated that the visit aimed to strengthen collaboration with the state government ahead of a departmental symposium. Commissioner Adeniyi emphasized the need for a sustainable partnership that extends beyond a one-day event, focusing on training and equipping staff to support SMEs effectively. He called for a structured framework that ensures continuous learning and engagement, stressing that the relationship should deliver real economic value. He reiterated the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde's administration to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts investment and supports enterprise growth.
Dr. Oluseyi Ajayi disclosed that the symposium is scheduled for July 16, 2026, with the theme "Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Business Survival and Expansion in the Knowledge Economy." He noted that the initiative aims to deepen the town-and-gown model, bridging the gap between academic research and real-sector application while strengthening SME capacity to adapt to emerging technological trends. Ajayi highlighted that SMEs are the backbone of Nigeria's economy, particularly in Oyo State, and integrating AI into business operations would unlock new growth opportunities. He recalled that the department began working with the ministry in 2024 to support SMEs and continues that effort to ensure businesses in Oyo State keep pace with the global shift toward AI-driven economies. The department is committed to moving beyond theoretical teaching to practical interventions that deliver measurable impact.
Mr. Dayo Bello, consultant and founder of Global Sight Services Limited, pointed out that digital capacity building, especially in AI and user interface design, is a pathway to global competitiveness.
