FG, UNDP launch AI UniPod at UNILAG to boost innovation in Nigeria

The Federal Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has officially launched the Artificial Intelligence (AI) UniPod initiative at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), in a major push to reposition Nigerian universities as innovation and enterprise hubs.

The initiative, which is expected to be expanded to 50 universities nationwide, aims to strengthen the country’s innovation ecosystem by turning academic institutions into centres for productivity, research commercialisation, and job creation.

Speaking at the launch, Vice-President Senator Kashim Shettima said Nigeria is shifting focus from talent identification to building functional systems capable of converting ideas into real economic value. He noted that the UniPod represents a deliberate effort to fix long-standing structural gaps in the innovation space.

“We are no longer asking whether Nigeria has talent. The real issue has been the absence of systems that can convert that talent into outcomes,” he said, adding that the project signals a new phase in building a national innovation framework.
Represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, Shettima reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the initiative is properly funded, supported, and monitored for impact.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, described the UniPod as a strategic investment designed to bridge education, technology, and enterprise. He noted that artificial intelligence would play a critical role in accelerating innovation and scientific discovery across sectors.

He also disclosed that Nigeria has improved its global AI readiness ranking, moving from 103rd position in 2023 to 72nd, attributing the progress to sustained investments in policy, infrastructure, and human capital development.

Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, represented by Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad, said the initiative would unlock the potential of young Nigerians by transforming universities into drivers of economic growth and problem-solving.

Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, revealed that the Lagos hub is the first of seven planned under the UNDP Timbuktu Project, describing it as a milestone in reshaping higher education for the digital age.

UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Else Attafuah, also praised the collaboration between government institutions and development partners, saying the project marks a turning point for innovation, research, and digital transformation in the country.

Other dignitaries at the event included the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Arc. Sonny Echono; Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack; and Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr. Olatunbosun Alake, representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Innovators from various sectors also showcased AI-driven solutions at an exhibition held during the programme.

The event featured an Innovation Marketplace, where Nigerian startups and developers presented solutions in health, agriculture, fintech, education, tourism, and deep tech.

The programme ended with the formal unveiling of the UniPod facility at UNILAG’s Akoka campus, followed by a guided tour of the innovation centre led by its Director, Mr. Chika Yinka-Banjo.

Stakeholders described the initiative as a major step toward building a knowledge-driven economy that connects research, talent, and investment for national development.