The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Tuesday a state-of-the-art ICT Park at the University of Ibadan (UI), marking what the Commission described as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.
Speaking at the event, the NCC’s Executive Vice-Chairman, Dr Aminu Maida, represented by the Commission’s Head of Technical Standards, Mr Abraham Osadami, said the new facility is “poised to become a powerhouse for innovation, research and entrepreneurship in the South-west region”.
Mr Osadami further described the ICT Park as a “one-stop hub for innovation”, specifically designed to support emerging technologies and “foster a new wave of digital solutions tailored towards Nigeria’s unique needs”.
Reflecting on the national significance of the project, he added: “Having passed through the Great Wall 32 years ago, this moment represents the fulfilment of a national assignment.”
According to him, the ICT Park is one of six flagship digital infrastructure projects executed across Nigeria “to foster innovation and strengthen research capabilities”.
Explaining the rationale behind the choice of location, Mr Osadami said: “UI is not only Nigeria’s oldest university; it is a launchpad of ideas. This campus represents more than a place of learning—whatever begins here has the power to initiate real change in society.”
He continued: “This facility is designed to facilitate the development and deployment of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things. It will serve as an incubation centre for homegrown solutions capable of driving economic growth, social transformation and inclusive development.
“It is equipped with high-capacity computers, an intelligent networking system, a multipurpose hall, and collaborative workspaces, all designed to align with the evolving demands of research and innovation in a digital economy.
“We urge students, faculty, political leaders, and the broader Oyo community to treat this facility as a shared legacy. One that must be preserved, used meaningfully, and expanded upon. This is not just a building; it’s a spark for a digital revolution.”
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, hailed the inauguration as “a defining moment” for the institution.
He said: “This ICT Park is a beacon of progress, a transformative gift to Nigeria’s premier university. We deeply appreciate the foresight and extraordinary generosity of the NCC.
“This facility will bridge the digital divide, revolutionise teaching and learning, and provide a collaborative environment needed to tackle global challenges.
“The world is undergoing a digital industrial revolution, and UI recognises its critical role in preparing the future. This aligns perfectly with the university’s vision to foster innovation, empower entrepreneurship, and provide smart campus technologies. This investment is not just in UI, it is in Nigeria’s future.”
The facility comprises a 100-seat main hall, five ICT hub halls, a 24-seater lounge with eight dual-computer workstations, several collaborative workspaces and administrative offices. It is fully fitted with high-capacity computing systems, intelligent networking tools and incubation centres, designed to support indigenous technological innovations.
