The national rollout of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) UniPod, a flagship innovation hub aimed at promoting youth-led technology development and entrepreneurship, has commenced at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Gatekeepers News reports that the initiative, a collaboration involving the federal government, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and UNILAG, is part of the UNDP’s Africa Timbuktoo Initiative. It is designed to position Nigerian universities at the forefront of a continent-wide push to harness innovation for economic growth and job creation.
Representing Vice President Kashim Shettima at the launch, Ibrahim Hadejia said the programme signals a new phase of university-driven innovation.
“This initiative is not just a forum for discussion, but a platform for enterprise and national development,” he said. “Artificial Intelligence is shaping our future. Its ability to augment human intelligence and expand possibilities makes it imperative that Nigeria actively participates in the AI era.”
Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Folasade Ogunsola, described the launch as a “transformative milestone” for both the institution and the country.
“This marks the beginning of a journey that will shape the future of innovation, research, and national development,” she said. “Artificial Intelligence is a powerful force, and through this hub, we are positioning our students and researchers to harness it for societal impact.”
She noted that the university has already established a foundation in AI research, training, and startup incubation, adding that the UniPod will help unify and accelerate these efforts.
Also speaking, Elsie Attafuah highlighted the broader objectives of the programme, including fostering economic inclusion and bridging the gap between academic innovation and market opportunities.
The AI UniPod is expected to support startup creation, generate employment, and empower young Africans to play leading roles in the digital economy.
The event drew participation from government officials, academic leaders, industry stakeholders, and students. Babajide Sanwo-Olu was represented by Olatunbosun Alake.
Other dignitaries included Bosun Tijani and Tunji Alausa, who was represented by Suwaiba Ahmad. Also in attendance were Sonny Ochonu and Didi Walson-Jack.
Nigeria is among the first countries to implement the UniPod model at scale, with eight universities selected in the initial phase. Each institution will focus on a specific sector, including Artificial Intelligence, AgriTech, MiningTech, GreenTech, TourismTech, TradeTech, and the Creative Economy.
Participating institutions include Ahmadu Bello University, Benue State University, Lagos State University, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, University of Maiduguri, Nasarawa State University, and University of Uyo.
The launch also coincided with the inauguration of the National Innovation System Initiative, a platform aimed at integrating talent, research, and capital into a cohesive ecosystem capable of driving job creation, strengthening industries, and improving quality of life.
With the first AI UniPod now operational at UNILAG, attention is expected to shift to the rollout of similar hubs across the country, as stakeholders emphasise the importance of collaboration among government, academia, the private sector, and development partners to translate innovation into tangible economic impact.
