Korapay Officials Visit Covenant University to Strengthen Existing Pact

Officials of Korapay, one of Covenant University’s foremost Eagle-led companies, paid a courtesy visit to the University to consolidate its existing Memorandum of Understanding and explore new avenues of collaboration.

The delegation, led by Dr. Stephen Oluwatobi, Executive Director of Korapay and an alumnus of Covenant University, represented the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Dickson Nsofor.

Speaking on behalf of the CEO, Dr. Oluwatobi expressed delight at returning to the institution that birthed the Korapay vision. He emphasized that Covenant University has remained central to the company’s success story, noting that nearly 70% of Korapay’s workforce are Covenant graduates, with several others currently interning at the organization.

He recalled that the company’s ₦200 million donation initiative was inspired by the desire to make a meaningful impact in celebration of the 70th birthday of the Chancellor, Dr. David O. Oyedepo, whose life of giving had been a great source of inspiration to the company’s leadership. According to him, the CEO, Mr. Nsofor, felt it was only befitting for Korapay to commemorate that milestone through a tangible Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project.

Dr. Oluwatobi further highlighted the company’s growing interest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how this emerging area presents new opportunities for collaboration with Covenant University, particularly in the field of research and innovation. He noted that the visit was part of the company’s efforts to deepen ties with its alma mater and to explore ways of leveraging the University’s research strengths for mutual growth.

Drawing parallels with global examples, he pointed out how strong university-industry partnerships are in developed nations, such as the synergy between Stanford University and Silicon Valley, which has driven innovation and national development. He stressed that similar collaborations could help Africa accelerate its growth trajectory, describing the partnership as a ‘win-win’ for both the University and Korapay.

While conveying the CEO’s apologies for his unavoidable absence, Dr. Oluwatobi explained that Mr. Nsofor had just welcomed a new baby and sends his warm regards to the Covenant community, reiterating his continued admiration and respect for his alma mater.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Timothy Anake, warmly welcomed the visiting team and expressed deep appreciation for Korapay’s consistent support to the University. He lauded the company’s notable donation and commitment to sustaining collaboration, describing it as a major boost to the institution’s development.

Professor Anake noted that endowments such as Korapay’s, contribute significantly to the University’s visibility and international ranking, especially under the ‘industry funding and external support’ metrics in global university ranking frameworks.

He further emphasized the need to strengthen the Hebron Start-Up Lab, a platform that nurtures innovative ideas from Covenant students. According to him, this would create a sustainable pathway for transforming student ideas into viable enterprises thereby boosting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals on Industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9), as well as Partnerships for the goals (SDG 17).

The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted ongoing efforts to upgrade student hostels to meet world-class standards and called on Korapay to consider supporting such initiatives. He informed the team of the Chancellor’s $1 million special endowment dedicated to product-oriented research, noting that Korapay’s involvement in this initiative would be highly beneficial.

Professor Anake concluded by expressing optimism about future collaborations with Korapay and other Eagle-founded enterprises, commending the company’s rising profile nationally. He prayed for greater accomplishments for the organization as it continues to contribute to Nigeria’s and Africa’s development.

Also present at the meeting were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lanre Amodu; Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Igban; Dean, Student Affairs, Dr. Felix Chidozie; and Director, Financial Services, Pastor Samuel Audu Joel.