High-level government officials and development partners recently gathered at the University of Lagos for the launch of the Artificial Intelligence University Innovation Pods (AI UNIPOD) at Lagos State University, Yaba.
The initiative aims to equip students and institutions with practical AI skills, promote innovation, and create measurable social and economic benefits.
At the event, the Vice-President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, was represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hassan. Ms. Elsie Attafuah, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria, and other dignitaries were also in attendance.
Attafuah highlighted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the success of AI UNIPOD. She called for increased private sector investment, better alignment among partners, and for governments to contextualize digital transformation at regional levels. She described the initiative as a platform for Nigerian youth to explore curiosity, creativity, and commitment.
“The success of this system relies on the collective effort of all stakeholders. For the youth, this is an opportunity to engage with curiosity and creativity. For the private sector, it presents a chance to invest in talent, support innovation, and convert ideas into enterprises. Partners and development institutions can align efforts and scale solutions for measurable impact, while state governments can adapt this model locally to drive regional growth,” Attafuah stated.
Sonny Echono, Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), emphasized that Nigeria’s economy requires market-ready solutions and youth empowerment to accelerate growth.
Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, described AI UNIPOD as a potential catalyst for national development. She stated that the university aims to nurture leaders capable of driving technological innovation, economic competitiveness, and solving societal challenges.
“Artificial Intelligence is a pivotal force reshaping the world. Its ability to enhance human capabilities, accelerate scientific discovery, and address complex global challenges is immense,” Ogunsola said.
Other notable attendees included the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, and Lagos State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Tunbosun Alake, alongside other government and development representatives.
The launch represents a strategic move in Nigeria’s efforts to leverage artificial intelligence for higher education and regional development.
