By Progress Godfrey

ABUJA – ​The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, has challenged Nigerian students to drive technological innovation to transform the nation’s economy.

​He made the call during the official commissioning and handover of the Renewed Hope–NITDA Innovation Hub at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.

​A statement issued by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) on Tuesday noted that the agency established the facility in partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative to provide modern laboratories for advanced technology research.

​Dr Tijani described the hub as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future, stressing that its true value lies entirely in the people who use 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.

​The Minister noted that the facility aims to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application for students.

​“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,” he added.

​He stated that the centre allows students to experiment and create solutions that address societal challenges while contributing to national development.

​The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor A. S. Bamire, thanked the Minister and the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, for their support toward the institution’s digital transformation.
​Professor Bamire highlighted the Minister’s contributions, including the donation of 50 laptops, innovation funds for students, and a promised 30-kilometre fibre-optic network.

​The Vice-Chancellor also commended NITDA for providing critical digital infrastructure that enhances students’ digital literacy and research opportunities.

​The hub is part of NITDA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the innovation ecosystem and equip young Nigerians with vital global digital skills.