Founder of Mudiame University in Edo State, Prof. Sunny Eromosele has said he built a replica of Harvard University in Nigeria to create sustainable solutions to the critical challenges facing Nigeria.

He disclosed this in Abuja after Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) transitioned Mudiame University from  a provincial status into full fledged licence.

Marking a new chapter in its mission to bridge the gap between academia and industry, Eromosele, expressed excitement over the achievement, after receiving the license, stressing that the achievements resonate with the academic foundation the university has built since it started operating.

“We are now fully licensed to run academic programme at Mudiame University,” Eromosele said. “This permanent license enables us to proceed with the accreditation of all our programmes. It’s a moment of pride, as we can now expand our programmes and mission of providing specialized education to meet Nigeria’s industrial needs.”

Drawing from his extensive experience in the oil and gas sector, Eromosele envisions Mudiame University as a hub for technical skills and industrial knowledge, designed to address Nigeria’s long-standing skill gaps.

He explained that the university has carefully selected programmes to support Nigeria’s path toward industrialization, with a focus on fields that are vital for the nation’s development.

“Our goal is to be known as Nigeria’s Harvard University for industrialization and entrepreneurship. We’re committed to creating innovative programmes that will transform Nigeria’s industrial landscape and generate employment,” Eromosele said.

He highlighted that this approach builds on his experience in the oil and gas industry, where his contributions have supported local content capacity, enabling Nigeria to handle domestic oil and gas construction projects more effectively.

Mudiame University is also taking steps to prevent the ongoing “brain drain” by offering students unique international collaboration opportunities.

Eromosele said the university has engaged embassies and established partnerships with universities in France, Europe, and Canada. “Through these collaborations, we aim to create a ‘brain recirculation’ system, where students can benefit from study programs abroad but ultimately bring their skills back to Nigeria,” he explained.

Member, House of Representative for Oredo Iyawe Esosa, speaking on the development described the achievement as a critical step forward for educational reform in Nigeria.

“This is a monumental accomplishment,” Esosa said. “My brother, Prof. Eromosele has shown remarkable dedication to advancing higher education in Edo and Nigeria at large. This permanent license signifies his commitment and proactive approach to expanding access to education, bringing more youth into the university system, and driving educational progress nationwide.”

Esosa emphasized the importance of supporting local educational institutions and called for leaders in Edo State  to back  the university’s mission to strengthen the educational sector.

“Education reform is a vital part of Nigeria’s future, and today’s event reflects a positive step toward achieving that goal,” Esosa added.