Gov. Nwifuru applauds rapid development of world‑class infrastructure at Ebonyi University of ICT, Oferekpe

Education, Politics

ABAKALIKI, Nigeria (NPA) — Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has hailed the rapid progress in constructing the University of ICT, Science and Technology, Oferekpe Agbaja, describing it as a legacy project set to transform education and digital innovation in Ebonyi State.

In a statement issued on Monday alongside a video showing the advanced level of construction work at the university site, Governor Nwifuru said his administration remains committed to delivering quality education for the citizens and the world-class infrastructure needed at the specialised institution.

Earlier, Nwifuru noted that the University of ICT, Science and Technology is designed to expand access to higher education while strengthening Ebonyi State’s capacity in information and communication technology, engineering, and innovation-driven development.

Recognised by the National Universities Commission as Nigeria’s 66th state university, the institution traces its roots to legislative approval in 2021, followed by a project committee in 2023 and the appointment of pioneer officers in 2024.

Governor Nwifuru stated that the philosophy of the institution is anchored on excellence in teaching, research, innovation, and the production of socially responsible graduates capable of competing in the global economy. According to him, the university is expected to serve as a major hub for ICT development, engineering and applied sciences, in line with Ebonyi State’s broader economic transformation agenda.

The state government also outlined priority academic programmes for the institution, revealing that the curriculum will focus on software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, ICT development and applied sciences. Traditional disciplines such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and other science-based programmes will also form part of the institution’s academic structure.

Officials said the programmes are designed to address the growing demand for ICT-driven manpower in Nigeria and globally, while promoting research, innovation and technology-based solutions.

Governor Nwifuru added that entrepreneurship training and community-based research would be integrated into the institution’s programmes to ensure graduates become job creators and contributors to local economic development.

Governor Nwifuru stressed that the university will position Ebonyi as a leading hub for ICT education and technological innovation, producing graduates who are globally competitive, socially responsible, and central to the state’s economic transformation agenda.

The establishment of the institution followed legislative approval granted in 2021, the inauguration of a project committee in 2023, and the appointment of pioneer officers in 2024.