The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), on Tuesday, commissioned a state-of-the-art ICT Park at the University of Ibadan (UI), describing the facility as a critical step in advancing Nigeria’s digital economy and fostering technological innovation in the South West region.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, who was represented by the Head of Technical Standards, Engr. Abraham Osadami, said the ICT Park is expected to serve as a hub for research, entrepreneurship, and the development of emerging technologies.
“This is not just another project. It is a strategic infrastructure designed to support innovation and provide a platform for developing local solutions using cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things,” Maida said.
He described the centre as a one-stop hub for digital creativity, adding that it will play a major role in bridging the gap between academic research and practical tech applications that can improve lives and drive economic growth.
Osadami, an alumnus of the institution, reflected on the personal significance of the project, saying, “Having passed through this campus 32 years ago, this is more than symbolic for me. It represents the fulfilment of a national assignment.”
He explained that the ICT Park is part of six flagship digital infrastructure projects being executed by the NCC across the country, aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and improving research capabilities.
The Commission said the choice of the University of Ibadan was deliberate, given its historical standing as Nigeria’s premier institution for higher learning and research.
“UI is not just the oldest university in Nigeria. It is a launchpad for ideas and innovation,” Osadami said. “This campus has always produced thinkers and leaders. What begins here often shapes the rest of the country.”
The facility is fully equipped with modern ICT tools, including high-capacity computing systems, intelligent networking infrastructure, a 100-seat multipurpose hall, five dedicated ICT hubs, a 24-seater lounge with dual-computer workstations, collaborative spaces, and administrative offices.
According to the NCC, the infrastructure is built to support both academic research and tech incubation, providing a flexible environment for homegrown solutions that address national development needs.
“We want students, lecturers, community leaders, and everyone in Oyo State to see this as a legacy project. It must be protected, fully utilised, and improved upon. This is not just a building. It is the spark for a digital revolution,” Maida said.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, described the ICT Park as a transformational gift to the university.
“This is a defining moment for us. The ICT Park will bridge the digital divide, transform how we teach and learn, and create the kind of collaborative environment we need to compete globally,” he said.
Adebowale commended the NCC for its vision and commitment to national development, noting that the initiative aligns perfectly with the university’s strategic focus.
“The world is undergoing a digital revolution, and the University of Ibadan is ready to prepare the next generation of leaders,” he said. “This is not just an investment in UI. It is an investment in the future of Nigeria.”
