NUC gets €3m ICT development loan, targets better global ranking for varsities

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has secured €3 million as the first tranche of a $40 million loan from the French Development Agency to support ICT projects in 10 selected Nigerian universities.

Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, executive secretary of the commission, attended the inaugural meeting of the 13th NUC board on Wednesday.

At the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, Ribadu noted that since assuming office about a year ago, the commission has pushed forward several initiatives centred on research, entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and skills development across Nigerian universities.

“We have secured $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 euros has been deposited in our CBN account to kick-start the process.

“We have strengthened internal financial management, expanded access to university education through the licensing of new private universities, and approved new programs and units.

“We have also supported the take-off of publicly funded universities, expanded open and distance learning centres, and continued system-wide quality assurance exercises. Currently, the 2025 accreditation exercise is ongoing.

“These priorities continue to form the foundation of the Commission’s direction, and I am seeking your support in advancing them.”

Ribadu assured the board of the commission’s full cooperation, saying the management stands ready to draw on member expertise.

“We will rely on your wisdom to guide us as we carry out our duties. I am confident that your collective experience will strengthen the Commission’s capacity to guide the Nigerian university system at a time when higher education continues to evolve,” the NUC ES said.

“We also look forward to using your networks to help advance projects and partnerships that will benefit the Commission and the entire university system.”

On his part, Oluremi Raphael Aina, chairman of the 13th NUC board, said the board is assuming its mandate at a time of transition for higher education, with global standards rising and expectations increasing.

Aina outlined five central pillars that will guide the board’s work, covering performance evaluation, improved university rankings, digital literacy, research, and institutional reforms.

He added that the board would fully leverage technology in its operations.

“Nigeria is ready to reset and rebuild. Through our assignment, we must lead other key stakeholders in the higher education sector. In pragmatically resolving the naughty and longstanding agitation of the academic staff union and other university unions,” he said.

“Advancements must also be made to enhance digital literacy and especially the use of artificial intelligence, AI, as tools to strategically reposition the universities nationally and internationally.”