NITDA–Federal University Partnership: Ogoni Varsity Seeks Digital Infrastructure Boost

NITDA–Federal University Partnership took centre stage as the leadership of the newly established Federal University of Environment and Technology, Ogoni, Rivers State, sought the support of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to strengthen digital infrastructure, improve technology-driven education and expand digital literacy.

The request was made during a meeting between the university’s management and NITDA officials as both institutions explored strategic areas of collaboration to bridge infrastructure gaps and build a digitally competitive learning environment.

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Prince Chinedu Mmom, said the institution, which is preparing to conclude its inaugural academic session, faces significant infrastructure and technology challenges that could hinder its long-term growth if left unaddressed.

He explained that the university urgently requires computers, workstations, reliable internet connectivity and other digital infrastructure to support teaching, research and innovation.

According to Mmom, strengthening the institution’s technology ecosystem is essential to delivering quality education and positioning the university among Nigeria’s leading centres of excellence in science and technology.

Responding to the request, the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, represented by the Director of Digital Literacy and Capacity Building, Mr. Oladeji Olawumi, welcomed the proposed NITDA–Federal University Partnership, describing it as a step towards advancing Nigeria’s digital economy agenda.

Olawumi highlighted NITDA’s ongoing digital literacy programme implemented in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Universities Commission (NUC), noting that the initiative is designed to equip students across tertiary institutions with globally relevant digital skills.

As part of the NITDA–Federal University Partnership, he proposed the integration of certified digital literacy courses and globally recognised Cisco certification programmes for both students and academic staff.

He also encouraged the university to extend digital skills training beyond the campus by establishing community technology clusters that would benefit local artisans, entrepreneurs and informal workers across the Ogoni region.

Beyond capacity building, Olawumi assured the institution of NITDA’s willingness to support its digital infrastructure development and collaborate on research initiatives that will drive innovation, economic growth and national development.

Both organisations expressed optimism that the NITDA–Federal University Partnership would improve academic excellence, strengthen digital education, expand research opportunities and contribute to the Federal Government’s vision of building a knowledge-based economy powered by technology.