Assessing the Adequacy and Utilization of Physical Facilities for Entrepreneurship Programs in North-Eastern Nigerian Universities

Abstract

Entrepreneurship education has become a strategic driver for national development, particularly in Nigeria where youth unemployment remains a persistent challenge. This study investigates the adequacy and utilization of physical facilities provided for entrepreneurship programs in federal universities located in the North-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Guided by two objectives, the study assessed (i) the adequacy in terms of types and quantity of physical facilities available for entrepreneurship programs, and (ii) the extent to which these facilities are utilized in supporting program implementation. The population of the study consisted of 247 respondents, including all 235 lecturers of Entrepreneurship Education in the federal universities of the zone. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests. Findings reveal gaps in both adequacy and utilization of physical facilities, with some institutions lacking critical infrastructure such as innovation hubs, workshops, and ICT laboratories. The study concludes that inadequacies in facilities hinder effective delivery of entrepreneurship education. Recommendations include increased government and university investment in modern facilities, enhanced maintenance culture, and stronger collaboration with industries to optimize utilization.