FG Launches AI, Robotics Innovation Hub At OAU

The Federal Government has inaugurated a new innovation centre focused on artificial intelligence and robotics at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, as part of efforts to strengthen technology-driven education and innovation in Nigeria.

The facility, known as the Renewed Hope-NITDA Innovation Hub, was officially commissioned by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, during a ceremony held at the university.

Developed by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative, the centre features advanced laboratories dedicated to artificial intelligence, robotics, additive manufacturing and the Internet of Things (IoT).

The hub is expected to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements by providing students, researchers and innovators with access to modern technological infrastructure rarely available in many tertiary institutions across the country.

Speaking at the inauguration, Tijani described the facility as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future workforce and innovation ecosystem. He said the project represents a commitment to empowering young Nigerians with the tools and opportunities required to compete in the global digital economy.

He encouraged students to maximise the opportunities offered by the hub, stressing that the facility should serve as a platform for developing practical solutions capable of addressing real-world challenges.

According to the minister, while the centre will be accessible to members of the wider community, its primary objective is to support students in transforming academic knowledge into innovative products and services.

He further urged the university community to leverage the available resources to create technologies that can contribute to economic growth, foster digital entrepreneurship and strengthen Nigeria’s position within the global technology landscape.

The innovation hub houses four specialised laboratories covering some of the fastest-growing segments of the technology sector. These include artificial intelligence, robotics, additive manufacturing and the Internet of Things.

The inclusion of additive manufacturing, commonly referred to as 3D printing, is expected to expose students to emerging industrial applications across sectors such as healthcare, construction and aerospace.

Similarly, the robotics and IoT laboratories are designed to support hardware-based innovation and product development, areas that have traditionally faced challenges in Nigeria due to the high cost of equipment, research tools and prototyping facilities.

The launch aligns with the Federal Government’s broader digital transformation agenda aimed at expanding technology adoption, strengthening innovation capacity and building a digitally skilled workforce.

Earlier this year, Tijani disclosed that ongoing investments in digital infrastructure are expected to significantly transform Nigeria’s connectivity landscape by 2027. Key projects include the deployment of 90,000 kilometres of fibre-optic cables, the rollout of new communication satellites and the installation of 3,700 additional rural telecommunications towers nationwide.

The government believes these initiatives will improve access to digital services, accelerate innovation and support the growth of Nigeria’s technology ecosystem.