The Deputy Chancellor of Babcock University, located in Ilisan-Remo, Ogun State, Professor Ademola Tayo, has strongly condemned Nigeria's ongoing heavy dependence on foreign technology, even though the country is part of a 21st-century knowledge-based economy.
He mentioned that digital technology is transforming human activities worldwide, and Nigeria must not fall behind in this domain.
He stated that information technology is now influencing all areas of life and professional pursuits, but Nigeria continues to act more as a consumer rather than a producer of computer hardware, software, artificial intelligence, telecommunications devices, and other digital advancements.
"But we can't keep going like this and hope for economic success, particularly as a nation," he stated.
Professor Tayo made this comment on Friday while responding to questions from reporters shortly after the launch of several new infrastructure projects at the university. These comprised the ICT Center, Senate Building, staff housing, library solar panels, swimming pool, pathway to the Wole Olanipekun Law Auditorium, guest house expansion, and more.
The Deputy Chancellor highlighted the significance of digital technology, stating that this is the reason Babcock University focuses on developing digital competencies and the acquisition of knowledge among its students, teaching staff, and other employees.
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He mentioned that Nigeria should have already been cultivating its own software and AI-driven technologies, as well as nurturing tech innovators and creators to support the country's growth.
Despite Africa's digital economy accounting for 16 to 20 percent of the continent's GDP—mainly because of progress in telecommunications and financial technology—he noted that infrastructure and innovation in Nigeria are still not well developed.
Professor Tayo thanked the donor of the ICT Centre, Mr. Tim Akano, who previously served as CEO of New Horizons Nigeria. He also expressed gratitude to the university's Board of Trustees for bringing the new state-of-the-art Senate Building, staff housing, and other developments to life. He recognized the graduates from the class of 2005 for contributing various projects, such as a solar panel for the library, a parking area, and a paved pathway leading to the law auditorium.
He mentioned that it has developed into a tradition for every graduating class to contribute major projects to the university as a sign of gratitude for the excellent education they obtained.
"Although students pay tuition and additional charges, they feel that the university, which has invested significantly in them, is deserving of their return," he stated.
He emphasized again that Babcock University is dedicated to education focused on values and entrepreneurship, aiming to produce graduates who are well-rounded, irrespective of their field of study.
From her side, Miss Taiwo Adesanya, President of the 2025 Graduating Class and an alumnus of International Law and Diplomacy, conveyed happiness that her group was able to make a significant contribution to the university.
She stated that all the projects contributed by her class—similar to those from earlier groups—were designed according to the requirements of the students and the broader institution. Even though they are about to graduate, she mentioned, future students will gain from the improved facilities.
She disclosed that the class collectively raised at least ₦200 million to support the initiatives, with the solar panel for the library alone amounting to approximately ₦70 million.
Although she mentioned that every graduating class strives to surpass the previous one, Taiwo acknowledged that her group could have achieved more if it weren't for the high inflation in the country, which greatly raised project expenses.
However, she mentioned that the projects would represent a legacy for their generation, as they move ahead with hope for the future.
In his previous comments, the Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the university, Professor Bassey Udoh, praised the university administration and the 2025 graduating cohort for finishing and launching the different initiatives.
He observed that the infrastructure would further improve teaching, learning, research, and other academic endeavors within the institution.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).