IBIE Launches Operations in Nigeria, Appoints Oru Leonard to Lead Expansion
Oru Leonard
Abuja, Nigeria – July 22, 2026 – The Institute of Business Innovation & Entrepreneurship (IBIE) has officially launched its operations in Nigeria, expanding its footprint in Africa as part of efforts to promote entrepreneurship, innovation, research, and business leadership across the continent.
As part of the expansion, Mr. Oru Leonard has been appointed Faculty Member and Authorized Representative for Nigeria, a role that will see him coordinate institutional partnerships, professional training, startup ecosystem development, research initiatives, and entrepreneurship programmes nationwide.
The institute said its academic activities in Nigeria will be led by Mahamud Hasan, Lead Faculty of IBIE, who will provide strategic direction for curriculum development, international collaboration, faculty coordination, and innovation-driven learning. According to the institute, his leadership will reinforce IBIE’s commitment to delivering globally relevant education while nurturing entrepreneurial ecosystems capable of driving sustainable development.
IBIE said it plans to work closely with universities, government agencies, private sector organizations, startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and development partners to deliver executive education, professional certification, business incubation, research, and leadership development programmes.
Speaking on the expansion, Mahamud Hasan described Nigeria as one of Africa’s most dynamic innovation hubs.
“Nigeria is one of Africa’s fastest-growing innovation ecosystems, rich with entrepreneurial talent and opportunities. Through IBIE Nigeria, we are committed to building strategic partnerships, empowering innovators, and developing future business leaders who will drive sustainable economic growth across the continent,” he said.
The institute noted that the Nigerian expansion aligns with its long-term vision of building a strong international network dedicated to innovation, entrepreneurship, research excellence, and cross-border collaboration.
It added that Nigeria is expected to serve as a strategic hub for advancing entrepreneurship education, strengthening innovation capacity, and supporting high-impact startups across West Africa.
IBIE reaffirmed its commitment to working with partners across sectors to empower innovators, transform businesses, and shape the future of entrepreneurship on the African continent.
