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Renewed Hope–NITDA Hub equipped with AI, robotics, IoT, and additive manufacturing labs to bridge theory and practice.
Bosun Tijani Commissions NITDA Innovation Hub at OAU,
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has challenged Nigerian students to become active drivers of innovation and technological development. He urged them to leverage emerging technologies to build solutions that can transform the nation’s economy.
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The Minister made the call during the official commissioning and handover of the Renewed Hope–NITDA Innovation Hub at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.
The facility was established by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative. It is equipped with modern laboratories for Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Additive Manufacturing, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
“Innovation Comes From People, Not Buildings”
Addressing students, academics, alumni, and stakeholders at the event, Dr. Tijani described the hub as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future. He stressed that its true value lies not in the infrastructure itself but in the people who will utilise it.
“Innovation does not come from buildings; innovation comes from people. Before all these buildings, this university had been producing talent, innovators, and people who have changed our country for good. It is not these buildings alone that will do it,” he said.
Bridging Theory and Practice
The Minister noted that the facility was created to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application. It provides students with a platform to transform ideas into real-world solutions.
He explained that in today’s digital age, access to knowledge is no longer the primary challenge for young people.
“A lot of students are in school today at a time when knowledge itself is ubiquitous. There is nothing your teachers want to teach you that you cannot find online. The biggest challenge today is the ability to apply the knowledge that you have been given or that you find.”
According to him, innovation hubs such as the newly commissioned centre are designed to enable students to experiment, create, and develop solutions. These solutions can address societal challenges while contributing to national development.
“If you want to know how to build a helicopter today, you can find it on Generative AI. But the question is, can you translate that knowledge into action? That is what centres like these are meant for. When you are taught, you come here and apply that knowledge to build something,” he stated.
Call to Protect and Utilise the Asset
He further called on students, faculty members, and alumni to ensure that the facility remains accessible and fully utilised, warning against allowing the centre to become an underused asset.
“The leaders can try, but if you do not apply your knowledge to build solutions, we will not get to where we need to be. This is an important asset. You have to take care of it and ensure it serves the purpose for which it was established,” he concluded.
Vice-Chancellor Highlights Minister’s Contributions
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Professor A. S. Bamire, expressed profound appreciation to Dr. Bosun Tijani and the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, for their sustained support and strategic investments in the university’s digital transformation journey.
Professor Bamire highlighted several contributions made by the Minister. These included the donation of 50 laptops to students and a $1,000 support fund for student innovators. He also noted the Minister’s promise to provide a 30-kilometre fibre-optic network to enhance internet connectivity across the institution.
He described the Minister as a valued stakeholder whose commitment continues to positively impact the university community.
The Vice-Chancellor also commended the NITDA Director General for the Agency’s consistent support through the provision of critical digital infrastructure and innovation facilities.
According to him, these interventions have significantly strengthened the university’s capacity to adopt information technology. They have also enhanced students’ digital literacy and skills. Furthermore, they have created greater opportunities for innovation, research, and technology-driven learning.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Innovation Ecosystem
ITDA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and promote digital skills development include the Renewed Hope–NITDA Innovation Hub.
The hub is also designed to equip young Nigerians with the tools they need to compete effectively in the global digital economy.
The initiative provides access to advanced technologies and hands-on learning opportunities. It is expected to empower students with the skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial mindset needed to drive technological advancement. Ultimately, this will support Nigeria’s journey toward a thriving digital future.
