Techeconomy had reported Moniepoint’s launch of a ₦3 billion commitment to establish Innovation Hubs at Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Nigeria and Ahmadu Bello University over the next three years, in what is being regarded as one of the largest private-sector investments in technology education and innovation infrastructure within Nigeria’s higher education system.

Speaking at the launch of the Moniepoint Innovation Initiative at Obafemi Awolowo University, Professor Aderounmu, deputy vice-chancellor (Academics), said the project represents a major step toward equipping young Nigerians with practical digital skills required in today’s technology-driven economy.

According to him, innovation remains a critical driver of economic growth, competitiveness, and sustainable development, making investments in youth-focused technology programmes essential for preparing the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and technology professionals.

He noted that the innovation hubs will provide students with access to hands-on training in software engineering, artificial intelligence, data science, robotics, product development, design, and entrepreneurship, helping to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry needs.

Aderounmu also highlighted Moniepoint’s previous contributions to the university, recalling that the company established a Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) Laboratory for the Department of Mechanical Engineering two years ago.

He said the facility has strengthened practical learning, research, innovation, and technical capacity development among students and faculty members.

The new innovation hubs form part of the broader Moniepoint Innovation Initiative, which seeks to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry while promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation among Nigerian youths.

Moniepoint said the three universities were selected to ensure broad regional impact and equitable access to opportunities across Nigeria.

The company noted that each hub will serve as a permanent centre for innovation-driven learning, capacity building, and technology development.

Beyond providing technical training, the initiative is expected to create a platform for knowledge exchange between industry and academia, supporting the development of a pipeline of skilled talent capable of driving Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

Aderounmu commended Moniepoint for what he described as a forward-looking investment in Nigeria’s future workforce and encouraged students to maximise the opportunities that the programme will offer.

A distinguished scholar and leader in Computer Science and Engineering, Professor Aderounmu brings decades of experience to this pivotal role.

He has served as the Centre Lead for the African Centre of Excellence in Software Engineering and the Obafemi Awolowo University Knowledge Park (OAK-Park), where he has driven initiatives that advance technological innovation and academic excellence.

His leadership journey includes serving as Dean of the Faculty of Technology and Head of the Department of Computer Science, as well as President of the Nigeria Computer Society from 2015 to 2019.

Under his stewardship, the Africa Centre of Excellence in ICT (OAK-Park) was established and has flourished, positioning OAU as a hub for digital transformation in Nigeria and across Africa.

“This is an opportunity to shape the future of education at OAU,” Professor Aderounmu stated. “I am committed to fostering an environment where ideas thrive.”

Professor Aderounmu’s emerging as the DVC Academics, OAU, carries significant implications for the information technology profession and industry in Nigeria and Africa.

His leadership is expected to further bridge the gap between academia and industry, aligning curricula with emerging technological trends, and fostering research that directly addresses the needs of Nigeria’s evolving digital economy.

His commitment to developing high-level ICT talent will contribute to strengthening the nation’s capacity in critical areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, and digital entrepreneurship.

As Nigeria and Africa continue to embrace digital transformation, this appointment signals a continued push for collaboration between universities and the technology industry, ensuring that graduates are equipped with globally relevant skills while advancing innovative research that supports the tech ecosystem.

This appointment recognizes Professor Aderounmu’s unwavering commitment to research, excellence in education, and visionary leadership, and marks a significant milestone in the university’s ongoing mission to deliver impactful education and innovation for national and continental development.