NUC grants recognition to Imo state’s University of Innovation, Science and Technology
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has formally recognised the University of Innovation, Science and Technology, Imo state.
With this development, Imo now has a total of eight federal and state-owned universities, while the number of state universities nationwide rises to 70.
Presenting the recognition documents at the NUC headquarters in Abuja, Hope Uzodimma, governor of Imo, described the approval as a major milestone in the state’s drive to expand access to quality education and equip young people with skills in digital technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Uzodimma said the new institution was conceived to serve as a hub for innovation and job creation, with a vision to foster entrepreneurship and economic growth through a partnership and mentoring agreement with the University of California, Berkeley.
“The University of Innovation, Science and Technology is set to become a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to create jobs and become employers of labour,” the governor said.
“The recognition by the NUC is a testament to our commitment to quality education and to the university’s potential to contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth,” he added.
Uzodinma noted that the university will play a pivotal role in preparing young people to succeed in the digital age and strengthen Imo’s reputation as an emerging centre for technology-driven education.
Abdullahi Ribadu, NUC executive secretary, commended the Imo state government for its vision, urging the university to maintain high academic standards and a strong research culture.
He emphasised that the institution must be student-cantered, offering applied and innovative programmes designed to produce graduates capable of making meaningful impact in their workplaces and communities.
“The university should be built on standards — with quality research, the expansion of knowledge, and active engagement with industry and society,” Ribadu said.
The recognition, according to the NUC, takes immediate effect and positions the university to commence full academic operations once its administrative and academic structures are in place.
