On the 11th of June, 2025, the Department of Business Administration at OAU will once again host the much-anticipated Ife Business Administration Conference (IBAC 2.0). Known for curating impactful conversations and connecting bright minds in the student business community, IBAC returns this year with more intention, depth, and relevance.
Slated to take place at Obafemi Awolowo University, the second edition of IBAC carries the theme: “The Resilient Business: Building a Culture of Adaptability, Innovation and Continuous Learning to Drive Scaling Success.” This powerful theme reflects the very challenges and opportunities that define the current economic and entrepreneurial landscape in Nigeria and beyond.
IBAC 2.0 isn’t just another university event. It’s a platform where students, thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and seasoned professionals will come together to explore how resilience can be built into the very DNA of businesses—especially in a country where unpredictability is often the norm.
This year, BusinessPoint is proud to partner with IBAC, in our shared mission of helping young people grow, connect, and thrive in today’s fast-changing world. In anticipation of the event, we sat down with the Chairperson of the 2025 Planning Committee, Ushie Joseph Osemudiamen, to learn more about the vision behind IBAC 2.0, the preparation process, and what participants should expect.
Q&A With Ushie Joseph Osemudiamen – Chairperson, IBAC 2.0
1. What inspired the theme “The Resilient Business: Building a culture of Adaptability, Innovation and continuous learning to drive scaling success.” for IBAC 2.0?
“Given the current economic landscape, we wanted to equip business students with practical strategies for building resilience. Our goal is to provide a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and skill development.”
Joseph explains that the theme was born out of a need to address the uncertainties plaguing today’s business environment. From inflation to policy shifts and job scarcity, many students are unsure of what the future holds. This theme seeks to confront those realities head-on and provide tools that are both relevant and immediately applicable to real-life challenges.
2. What challenges did you face in planning IBAC 2.0, and how did your team adapt?
“Planning IBAC 2.0 wasn’t without its hurdles—securing sponsorships and building a diverse speaker and panelist lineup were some of the major challenges. But we made good use of our network, made inclusivity a priority, and focused on planning a conference that would be truly impactful. I’m proud to say it all came together in the end.”
Despite these logistical challenges, the committee leaned on collaboration, resourcefulness, and a shared belief in the importance of the mission. Their goal wasn’t just to put on an event—but to create an experience that would shift perspectives and open doors.
3. Why is the panel session on navigating economic downturns crucial for Nigerian business students?
“We’ve chosen ‘Navigating Economic Downturns: Strategies for Business Resilience and Growth in Nigeria’ as a panel session topic due to its high relevance in today’s economic climate.
This session aims to equip business students with practical knowledge and strategies to build resilience, navigate challenges, and thrive in uncertain environments. By sharing expert insights and experiences, we hope to empower the next generation of business leaders to drive growth and innovation despite economic volatility.”
The panel session will serve as a timely and practical guide for students to learn from professionals who have weathered real-world storms—providing them with a clear understanding of how to survive and scale in uncertain times.
4. What experience or mindset shift do you hope participants will gain from IBAC 2.0?
“We hope participants gain practical knowledge, build meaningful connections, and develop a resilient mindset. Our goal is that every participant gets empowered to tackle business challenges confidently.”
It’s more than just inspiration. The conference aims to arm participants with the tools and confidence needed to transform ideas into action—and problems into opportunities.
5. What’s the future vision for IBAC, and are there long-term goals beyond the annual conference?
“As the Chairperson of the planning committee for IBAC’s second edition, I’m honored to be part of this journey. Our vision is to establish IBAC as a premier platform for business students, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to ignite innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Our long-term goals include expanding our reach, sharing knowledge, and implementing impactful programs that benefit future generations of business professionals and entrepreneurs.”
Joseph’s words echo a bold vision for the future: one where IBAC isn’t just a yearly gathering but a sustained platform for nurturing Africa’s next wave of changemakers.
IBAC 2.0 is shaping up to be more than a conference—it’s a movement. With a solid theme, inspiring leadership, and timely conversations on resilience, adaptability, and growth, this edition is set to leave a lasting mark on its attendees.
Whether you’re a business student, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone eager to learn and lead in tough times, June 11th at Obafemi Awolowo University is where you want to be.
For sponsorship, ticketing and enquires – you can contact
JOJO
Chairperson: 08107772253
BUSAYO
Head, Sales & Registration: 07030067212
TISHE
Vice Chairperson: 08050384932
Stay tuned for updates and more exclusive content from the event.
Nice
Good job