In a strategic push to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation capacity, Ademola Adeleke has called for the widespread establishment of engineering endowment funds, positioning them as critical drivers of national development.

Speaking at the ₦150 million MicCom Memorial Endowment for Engineering Development held at Obafemi Awolowo University, Adeleke framed the initiative as a forward-looking investment in human capital and technological advancement.

The endowment, created in honour of late industrial pioneers Mr. and Mrs. Michael Ponnle—founders of MicCom Cables—is designed to support engineering education, research, and innovation. It also reflects a growing recognition of the private sector’s role in complementing government efforts in building knowledge-driven economies.

Adeleke emphasized that engineering endowments go beyond scholarships, describing them as platforms that bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application. According to him, such initiatives can significantly enhance research output, foster industry collaboration, and cultivate a new generation of engineers grounded in both technical expertise and ethical responsibility.

He commended the Ponnle family for what he described as a “visionary intervention,” noting that investing in education ensures that legacy transcends memory and becomes a living force for societal progress.

Also speaking, the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Simeon Bamire, described the fund as a strategic investment in the pillars of sustainable development. He highlighted its potential to boost cutting-edge research, improve infrastructure, and provide scholarships that will empower talented students.

From the family’s perspective, Mrs. Bukola Adubi noted that the initiative is structured to nurture innovation and intellectual inquiry among engineering students, while also preserving the legacy of her parents through impactful educational support.

The development signals a broader shift toward public-private collaboration in education funding, particularly in high-impact sectors like engineering. Analysts say scaling such endowment models nationwide could play a pivotal role in addressing Nigeria’s skills gap, accelerating industrial growth, and positioning the country for long-term competitiveness in a technology-driven global economy.