Maduka University has won the 2026 National Business Plan Competition for the South-East Zone. The Association of Directors of Entrepreneurship Centres in Nigerian Universities organised the competition in partnership with the National Universities Commission (NUC). The university secured first place in its debut appearance, outperforming more than 21 federal, state and private universities across the region.
The institution was represented by Chinonso Josuha Ezema, a 400-level Mechatronics Engineering student, and Caleb Nwabo, a 300-level Nursing Science student. The duo co-founded Agricept Foods, a student-led business that transforms locally sourced agricultural produce into value-added food products. Their achievement highlights the role of student innovation in creating economic opportunities.
Agricept Foods Focuses on Nsukka Yellow Pepper
The students’ winning business plan centres on processing, packaging and marketing Ose Nsukka, also known as Nsukka Yellow Pepper. Their plan targets local consumers and international export markets. It demonstrates how locally available agricultural resources can support enterprise development and create new market opportunities.
The project also connects with wider efforts to expand agricultural production and processing across the region. For example, the South-East agro-development programme seeks to strengthen agricultural activities through an integrated model farm in Enugu State. Similarly, the SEDC agro-mechanisation project aims to improve farming and create economic opportunities across the South-East.
Agricept Foods’ focus on value-added products also reflects the potential of agricultural development in Nkanu East. Processing and packaging can help local producers reach wider markets instead of selling only raw produce. With effective implementation, such ventures could support jobs and encourage young people to explore agribusiness.
Nigeria-British University and UNIZIK Take Second and Third Places
Nigeria-British University finished second in the competition, while Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, secured third place. The three universities will represent the South-East at the National Enterprise Competition scheduled for Abuja in November 2026. Their participation will give the institutions an opportunity to present their business ideas on the national stage.
The competition also highlights the importance of practical learning and innovation in higher education. Enugu State has similarly emphasised educational development through initiatives such as the Enugu Education Policy. These efforts reflect wider discussions about preparing students with skills that support employment, entrepreneurship and economic growth.
Universities can also help students connect classroom knowledge with practical business challenges. This approach aligns with broader conversations about investment in technology, agriculture and education. Such connections can help students identify commercial opportunities and develop solutions to local problems.
Maduka University Celebrates Students’ Achievement
Congratulating the students, Maduka University Chancellor Dr Samuel Maduka Onyishi described the achievement as a source of pride for the institution. He said the first-place finish reflected the creativity, entrepreneurial spirit and determination of its students and staff. The result also marked a significant milestone for the university’s first participation in the competition.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Charles Ogbulogo said the success validated the university’s commitment to entrepreneurship, innovation, research and practical solutions. He noted that these areas could contribute to job creation and economic development. The university aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to turn innovative ideas into sustainable ventures.
The emphasis on entrepreneurship also reflects the importance of helping young people access opportunities. In Enugu State, the Federal Character Commission’s youth initiative has highlighted access to jobs, scholarships, grants and training programmes. Such opportunities can help young people develop their skills and pursue different career paths.
University Innovation and Regional Economic Development
Maduka University’s achievement demonstrates how students can apply their academic knowledge to business ideas. Agricept Foods combines engineering and nursing students’ interests with an agricultural product that has commercial potential. Its plan to process and market Nsukka Yellow Pepper could help showcase a locally sourced product to wider audiences.
The success also comes amid broader efforts to encourage enterprise development and investment across Enugu State. The state’s economic development plans include initiatives across education, agriculture, technology and infrastructure. Meanwhile, discussions around Enugu’s economic ambitions have highlighted the role of private investment in expanding business activity.
Practical entrepreneurship can also benefit from stronger community connections. The community development exercise in six Enugu communities illustrates how local needs can guide development interventions. For student-led businesses, understanding local producers and consumers can help shape products that meet market demand.
The university’s focus on innovation also connects with wider conversations about technical education and skills development. A recent tour of Enugu development projects included education and other facilities supporting the state’s development agenda. Such investments can contribute to an environment where students acquire knowledge and explore practical applications.
Maduka University’s win places Agricept Foods among the South-East representatives heading to the national competition in Abuja. The team will have an opportunity to present its business plan alongside entries from other regions. Its performance has also drawn attention to the potential of student-led enterprises built around locally sourced agricultural products.
As the students prepare for the next stage, their achievement reinforces the university’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent. It also highlights the value of helping students transform innovative ideas into sustainable business ventures that can contribute to economic growth.
