In a major move to transform Nigeria’s higher education system, 10 federal universities have been selected to share a $38 million ICT grant under the Blueprint-ICT-Dev Project; a federal initiative backed by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD).
The project, launched on July 1, 2025, at the National Universities Commission (NUC) headquarters in Abuja, is aimed at creating smart campuses, encouraging hybrid learning, and boosting digital infrastructure across Nigerian institutions.
Beneficiary Universities by Region
- North-West: Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
- North-East: University of Maiduguri, Modibbo Adama University (Yola)
- North-Central: Federal University of Technology (Minna), University of Jos
- South-West: University of Ibadan (UI), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife
- South-East: University of Nigeria (Nsukka), Nnamdi Azikiwe University (Awka)
- South-South: University of Calabar
At the heart of the initiative is a vision to:
- Boost internet bandwidth
- Expand access to modern ICT tools
- Promote digital literacy
- Introduce blended learning models
- Improve graduate employability through tech skills
Professor Amina Mustapha, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research & Development) at Bayero University Kano, called it a “groundbreaking intervention.” She noted it would “bridge ICT gaps and enhance both learning and research capacities.”
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, hailed the project as a “golden opportunity” to bring Nigeria’s universities to global standards.
Also in attendance at the launch:
- Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu – NUC Executive Secretary
- Mr. Marc Fonbaustier – French Ambassador to Nigeria
- Mr. Xavier Muron – AFD Country Director
They officially handed over grant letters to the selected institutions.
This ICT funding is expected to:
- Lower the cost of education delivery
- Equip students with in-demand global tech skills
- Strengthen teacher training and research
- Position Nigeria’s universities for international competitiveness
