Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Tuesday officially commissioned a newly completed ICT Park at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), as part of its broader national strategy to accelerate digital transformation and innovation across the country.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, while commissioning the project, described the ICT Park as one of six flagship digital infrastructure projects established by the Commission in strategically selected institutions across Nigeria.
Dr. Maida was represented at the event by the Director of Special Duties, Shu’aibu Swade.
According to him, the ICT Park represents a crucial component of the NCC’s broader agenda to drive ICT innovation, promote research capabilities, and catalyze growth in Nigeria’s digital economy.
“Technology is one of the greatest drivers of economic transformation in our world today. For our growing economy, it remains our biggest hope. This means we must create the right environment for it to thrive,” he said.
He explained that the concept of the ICT Park is rooted in the Commission’s vision to foster innovation and digital entrepreneurship, particularly in the ICT sector, while supporting research and development through the conversion of ideas into viable market solutions.
“This is why our ICT Parks—aptly described as ‘One Roof, All Possibilities’, serve as one-stop hubs for innovation.
“Each park brings together a multidisciplinary facility under one roof, equipped with high-capacity computer labs, simulation rooms, smart networking systems, collaborative workspaces, and conference halls,” he added.
Dr. Maida emphasized that these spaces are designed as incubation centers for indigenous technological solutions, playing a significant role in Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation.
He noted that the initiative aligns with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, as well as the Strategic Vision of the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.
Speaking further, he praised the role of UDUS, established in 1975.
He described it as a specialized institution central to scholarship and learning.
He said the decision to locate the ICT Park within UDUS was a deliberate effort to support its academic and research mandate.
“By situating this ICT Park at Danfodiyo University, we are aligning our investment with the institution’s unique academic focus.
“Our goal is to build an ecosystem where advanced ICT infrastructure supports education in emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), while encouraging cutting-edge research and skills development,” he stated.
The NCC boss also revealed the park’s features, which include a 100-seat capacity hall, five ICT hub halls, a 24-seater lounge with eight dual-computer workstations, multiple collaborative workspaces, and dedicated offices.
He described it as a state-of-the-art facility designed to support the institution’s digital development.
He urged both staff and students of the university to view the maintenance and sustainability of the facility as a shared responsibility, ensuring that it continues to benefit the university and the broader Sokoto community for generations to come.
“I reaffirm the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Communications Commission to creating an enabling environment for the ICT sector to flourish.
“Together, we will build a future where technology empowers our youth, strengthens our institutions, and transforms our economy,” Maida declared.
Dr. Maida encouraged members of the university community to make the best use of the ICT Park, describing it as “a symbol of excellence” and a beacon for digital advancement.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) of UDUS, Professor Bashir Garba, said the university would maximize the potential of the facility to support academic innovation. He was represented by Professor Mohammed Garka Mahuta.
Professor Garba expressed deep appreciation to the NCC for actualizing the project, describing it as a timely intervention that mirrors the university’s vision to establish a dynamic and sustainable ICT environment.
He assured that the university would develop a robust and sustainable framework for the development and long-term functionality of the park, pledging full institutional support for its effective operation.
