NUC receives €3m to launch ICT projects in 10 universities as board targets reforms, better rankings
The National Universities Commission (NUC) says it has received €3 million as the first tranche of the $40 million loan secured from the French Development Agency (AFD) to support information and communication technology (ICT) projects in 10 selected Nigerian universities.
Abdullahi Ribadu, executive secretary of the commission, announced the development in Abuja on Wednesday during the inaugural meeting of the 13th NUC board.
Ribadu said since his assumption of office about a year ago, the commission has advanced several initiatives focused on research, entrepreneurship, digital transformation and skills development across the university system.
“We have secured a $40 million loan from the French Development Agency for the ICT Blueprint Project in 10 selected universities,” he said.
“Only yesterday, the Director confirmed to me that the first tranche of €3 million has been deposited in our CBN account to kick-start the process.”
He added that the commission has strengthened internal financial management, expanded access to university education through the licensing of new private universities, and approved new programmes and units.
According to him, NUC has also supported the take-off of publicly funded universities, expanded open and distance learning centres, and sustained system-wide quality assurance exercises, including the ongoing 2025 accreditation exercise.
“These priorities continue to form the foundation of the commission’s direction, and I am seeking your support in advancing them,” he told the board.
Ribadu assured the new board of the commission’s full cooperation, saying the management is prepared to tap into the members’ expertise and networks to strengthen the Nigerian university system.
Oluremi Aina, chairman of the 13th NUC board, commended President Bola Tinubu for his sustained support for the higher education sector.
He said the board is taking up its mandate at a crucial period of transition, with global standards rising and expectations increasing.
Aina outlined five priority pillars that will guide the board’s work: performance evaluation, improved global rankings, enhanced digital literacy, strengthened research, and far-reaching institutional reforms.
“As we settle into this assignment, permit me to present what I call five pillars to guide our stewardship,” he said.
He stressed the need for a thorough evaluation of the NUC’s performance, alignment with the federal government’s renewed hope agenda, dismantling of obstacles to university quality, exploring new funding models, and investing in the welfare and capacity of NUC staff.
Aina said the Board will also champion the use of technology, including artificial intelligence, to reposition Nigerian universities and improve their global and webometric rankings.
“We will leverage technology to ease our operations by adopting digital platforms for the advancement of our collective objectives. This board carries the weight of expectations and aspirations of the Nigerian people,” he added.
