The National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved the establishment of the University of Innovation, Science and Technology in Imo State, marking a significant boost to the state’s education sector.
The approval, which brings Imo’s total number of federal and state-owned universities to eight, also contributes to the national tally of 70 state universities across Nigeria.
Governor Hope Uzodimma received the official approval letter from NUC Executive Secretary, Abdullahi Ribadu, at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. Ribadu commended the Imo State Government for its foresight and commitment to expanding access to quality education.
“The university should be built on standards with quality research, expansion of knowledge, and active engagement with industry and society,” Ribadu said. He urged the management of the new institution to focus on innovative programmes that produce graduates capable of driving national development.
The NUC confirmed that the approval takes immediate effect, paving the way for the university to commence full academic activities once its administrative and academic frameworks are fully established.
Governor Uzodimma described the approval as a “major milestone” in his administration’s mission to empower young Nigerians through digital education, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
He added that the University of Innovation, Science and Technology was conceived as a centre for research, creativity, and job creation, noting that it will partner with global institutions such as the University of California, Berkeley, to provide mentorship and exchange opportunities.
