The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Tuesday, commissioned a state-of-the-art ICT Park at the University of Ibadan (UI), marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.
The facility is poised to become a powerhouse for innovation, research, and entrepreneurship in the Southwest region.
The commissioning and handing-over ceremony, which took place within the university’s ICT zone, was led by the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, who was represented by the Executive Commissioner (Technical Services) of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Engr. Abraham Osadami.
In his keynote address, Dr. Maida, reflected on the personal and national significance of the project.
His words: “Having passed through the Great Wall 32 years ago, this moment represents the fulfillment of a national assignment. The ICT Park is part of a broader initiative, six flagship digital infrastructure projects executed across the country, to foster innovation and strengthen research capabilities.”
He explained that the choice of UI was deliberate, owing to its historic leadership in education and research:
“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 added.
He elaborated on the project’s long-term purpose saying: “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.”
He added: “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.”
He also issued a call to action saying: “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.”
Describing the project, Maida called the ICT Park a “one-stop hub for innovation”, designed to support emerging technologies and foster a new wave of digital solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique needs.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, described the commissioning as a defining moment for the university.
His words: “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, revolutionize teaching and learning, and provide a collaborative environment needed to tackle global challenges.”
He added: “The world is undergoing a digital industrial revolution, and UI recognizes 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.”
Earlier in her welcome speech, the Director of Information Technology and Media Services at UI, Mrs. Abiodun Alao, traced the journey leading up to the commissioning: “Between 2014 and 2018, the NCC donated laptops that served as the first digital teaching tools for projections in lecture halls. A set of computers has since been donated annually, culminating in the establishment of a smart classroom in the basement of the Kenneth Dike Library. From 2022 to 2024, 110 all-in-one tablets were deployed to facilitate paperless meetings and student competitions, showing a long-term commitment to digital empowerment on campus.”
She added: “Some students have already benefited from NCC-sponsored training programs, highlighting the ICT Park’s promise as a resource hub for skills development. There are more than sufficient ideas that have awaited this innovation. Now, those ideas can be realized.”
The newly commissioned facility features a 100-seat main hall, five ICT hub halls, a 24-seater lounge with eight dual-computer workstations, multiple collaborative workspaces, and administrative offices. It is also equipped with high-capacity computing systems, intelligent networking tools, and incubation centres aimed at supporting homegrown technological innovations.
The Vice Chancellor was joined by one of his deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Professor Peter Olapegba as well as the University Registrar, Mr. Ganiyu Oke Saliu. Also in attendance were the Zonal Controller of the NCC, Mrs. Olubunmi Bamijoko; and other dignitaries from the NCC and academic communities.
