In a major boost to tertiary education in Nigeria, Imo State has officially added a new institution to its growing educational landscape with the recognition of the University of Innovation, Science and Technology, Umuna, Onuimo, as the fourth state-owned university by the National Universities Commission (NUC). This significant development not only strengthens Imo’s position as a major educational hub in Nigeria but also reinforces the state’s commitment to producing graduates with modern, industry-relevant skills.
Governor Hope Uzodinma Leads Educational Transformation in Imo State
Speaking during the formal presentation of the university’s recognition certificate, Governor Hope Uzodinma described the establishment of the University of Innovation, Science and Technology as a bold and strategic step toward expanding access to higher education while aligning with global trends in innovation and technology.
The Governor noted that the new institution is not just another addition to the state’s educational map but a transformational model designed to empower young Nigerians with cutting-edge knowledge in digital technology, innovation, science, and entrepreneurship.
According to him, the university will focus on equipping students with skills that go beyond the classroom — skills that are relevant in today’s rapidly evolving digital economy. “Our goal is to nurture young men and women who will not just seek jobs but create them, using innovation and technology as driving tools,” he stated.
Governor Uzodinma further emphasized that the establishment of the university aligns with his administration’s policy of fostering human capital development through quality and affordable education.
NUC Commends Imo State, Calls for Quality Research and Standards
During the presentation ceremony, the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Dr. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, congratulated the Imo State Government for its continuous efforts in expanding educational opportunities for its citizens.
Dr. Ribadu highlighted that with this latest approval, Imo State now boasts four state-owned universities and a total of eight universities when combined with federal and private institutions within the state. He further revealed that Nigeria now has 70 state universities, marking steady progress in tertiary education growth across the nation.
However, the NUC boss was quick to stress that beyond establishment, maintaining quality and global competitiveness should be the key priority. He called on the management of the new university to ensure that academic standards are upheld through strict adherence to NUC guidelines, robust research culture, and effective community engagement.
Dr. Ribadu said the commission expects the new university to operate as an innovation-driven, research-oriented, and student-centered institution that will focus on applied sciences, experimental learning, and technology-based programmes relevant to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
A Vision for the Future: Building Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Education
The creation of the University of Innovation, Science and Technology reflects Imo State’s forward-looking vision to reimagine higher education as a platform for innovation and job creation. Rather than producing graduates limited to theory, the new institution aims to train future innovators, inventors, and entrepreneurs.
It will feature programmes designed to merge academic learning with practical skills, particularly in fields such as:
- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
- Software Engineering
- Renewable Energy and Environmental Technology
- Digital Entrepreneurship
- Mechatronics and Applied Sciences
These courses are expected to align with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), helping students develop the competencies needed to thrive in an increasingly digital and knowledge-based economy.
Imo State: An Emerging Powerhouse in Higher Education
With the addition of this new institution, Imo State now joins the league of states with multiple tertiary institutions that cater to diverse academic and technical needs. The state is already home to prominent universities such as:
- Imo State University (IMSU)
- Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University (KOMU), Ogboko
- University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Umuagwo
- And now, the University of Innovation, Science and Technology, Umuna, Onuimo
This development reflects Governor Uzodinma’s strategic educational blueprint to make Imo a regional hub for research, science, and innovation in Nigeria.
The government has also pledged to invest heavily in infrastructure, laboratories, digital facilities, and faculty recruitment to ensure the university competes favourably with global institutions.
National Impact: Strengthening Nigeria’s Knowledge Economy
The recognition of the University of Innovation, Science and Technology by the NUC goes beyond the boundaries of Imo State — it contributes to Nigeria’s broader educational and economic agenda.
As Nigeria moves toward a knowledge-driven economy, the establishment of universities focused on science, technology, and research is critical to addressing unemployment, industrialization gaps, and innovation deficits.
Education analysts believe that if properly funded and managed, the new university could serve as a model for how sub-national governments can leverage education to drive economic diversification and sustainable growth.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the announcement has been met with widespread enthusiasm, education experts have also highlighted the importance of sustained funding, transparent governance, and long-term planning. The success of the new university will depend on how effectively it can:
- Recruit qualified and experienced faculty members
- Develop world-class academic and research facilities
- Build strong partnerships with industries and international institutions
- Maintain NUC accreditation and global standards
- Foster an innovation ecosystem that supports startups and research commercialization
Governor Uzodinma has assured stakeholders that his administration is fully committed to addressing these challenges head-on, promising that the university will not be left to struggle for resources or identity.
