By Olamide Ayoade
DESPITE the harsh economic conditions and the rise of cybercrime among youths, especially on university campuses, some student entrepreneurs still stay true to their craft and change the narrative by engaging in legitimate businesses, proving that success doesn’t have to come with shortcuts.
Harnessing the power of technological tools, social media platforms, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit, these students use their time on campus not just to earn a degree but to build thriving businesses. Their ventures are reshaping the traditional path to career advancement, proving that with the right blend of passion and technology, success is achievable, even before graduation.
Tiamiyu Olugbenga Ezekiel, popularly known as Zickel, is one such entrepreneur. The final-year Computer Science student co-founded 'Kilishi Konnect' with Mojolaoluwa Odetayo, an Accounting student. Their business, which delivers high-quality Kilishi across South-West Nigeria and even overseas, started in a single room on campus. "We saw the opportunity in the food industry, especially with a product like kilishi that appeals to Nigerian youths," Tiamiyu explains. "As a graphic designer, I used my tech skills to create our brand identity, which helped us stand out.
For Zickel, tech is more than just a tool but a driving force behind Kilishi Konnect’s growth. From using digital tools for tracking orders to building a website with integrated payment systems, technology has enabled them to scale rapidly. “We’re now searchable on Google Maps, and social media has given us a platform to engage customers and build a community around our product,” he said.
Abdulmalik Adegbite, another OOU entrepreneur and Mass Communication student shares a similar story. He is the creative director of Hoyluxury, a clothing brand that serves as a voice for underprivileged communities. "University is more than just a place for learning; it’s a marketplace,” Abdulmalik said. He uses platforms like Instagram and Twitter to promote his brand, while tools like Canva and Photoshop help him craft striking visuals. Like Tiamiyu, Abdulmalik sees technology as crucial for running his multiple ventures, which also include content creation and podcasting.
One of the biggest challenges student entrepreneurs face is balancing academics with business. For Tiamiyu and his partner, dividing tasks according to their strengths has been key. "Mojolaoluwa, being an Accounting student, handles the finances while I focus on marketing and tech. We plan our schedules carefully to ensure we don’t fall behind in either area," Tiamiyu explains.
For Abdulmalik, prioritization is everything. "It’s challenging, but I’ve learned to manage my time effectively," he said. His studies in Mass Communication often complement his work, especially when it comes to branding and public relations for Hoyluxury. "I apply what I learn in class to my business, which helps me stay on top of both."
Animashaun Olamide Fatimah, another entrepreneur on the campus, has mastered the art of balancing her studies with her various businesses, which range from hair-making to fashion and beauty products. "I take my studies seriously. When it's time to study, I put all pending orders on hold and focus on my academics. My customers understand, and I return to my business during my leisure time," she says.
For these student entrepreneurs, technology is not just a convenience, it’s essential to their operations and growth. Social media platforms, in particular, have proven to be invaluable tools for building their brands, engaging customers, and expanding their reach.
"Instagram and TikTok have been fantastic for Kilishi Konnect. They allow us to showcase our product in a way that makes people crave it instantly," says Tiamiyu. With the visual nature of these platforms, businesses like his can quickly capture the attention of a wide audience. Similarly, Abdulmalik’s Hoyluxury thrives on Instagram and Twitter, where he builds community buzz around new re-addition.
Fatimah relies heavily on WhatsApp and Facebook to connect with her customers. "WhatsApp is particularly effective for me because most of my customers are active on the platform. It’s a direct way to engage with them, advertise my products, and keep them updated," she explains. Without the power of social media, Fatimah believes her business would struggle to grow as rapidly as it has.
In addition to social media, digital payment systems and e-commerce platforms are helping these entrepreneurs streamline transactions and cater to customers from different locations. Abdulmalik uses BUMPA, an online store platform, to sell his products and plans to expand to larger platforms like Jumia and Konga. Tiamiyu, on the other hand, is developing a dedicated e-commerce site for Kilishi Konnect, allowing customers to place orders seamlessly from anywhere.
These ventures have reshaped their career aspirations. Tiamiyu, originally a Computer Science major with a focus on tech, now sees entrepreneurship as a major part of his future. "It’s made me realize that I can combine my skills in technology, design, and business to create something impactful," he says. His goal is to expand Kilishi Konnect beyond the university market and turn it into a national brand.
Abdulmalik, once focused solely on media and PR, has broadened his career outlook as well. "Running Hoyluxury and being a content writer for WordweaverHQ has shown me the power of business as a tool for change. It’s something I want to continue in the long run," he says.
Fatimah shares a similar sentiment. "Entrepreneurship has equipped me with communication, problem-solving, and time management skills that will be invaluable in my career, whether I stay in media or continue to grow my businesses," she explains.
Another critical aspect of leveraging tech is the ability to form valuable partnerships. Social media and online networking have opened doors for collaborations that would have been difficult to achieve otherwise. Tiamiyu has secured wholesale partnerships with supermarkets, while Abdulmalik has connected with influencers who help promote Hoyluxury. "These connections have been key to growing our brand and expanding our customer base," he notes.
Fatimah, too, has used platforms like WhatsApp to network with other entrepreneurs and customers. "It’s amazing how a simple post can lead to a new partnership or opportunity," she says.
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