Nigeria to Launch Six New Centres of Excellence in Tech

The Nigerian Federal Government, through the Executive Secretary of Tetfund, Sonni Echono, announced plans to establish six additional Centres of Excellence focused on Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Cybersecurity across selected tertiary institutions in Nigeria. This initiative aims to increase the total number of Tetfund-supported Centres of Excellence from 30 to 36, thereby strengthening Nigeria's capacity in cutting-edge technology and innovation.

The committee, chaired by former Secretary General and Vice Chancellor of a Nigerian university, Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, is tasked with guiding the selection process for institutions that will host these new centres.

The selection criteria will ensure representation across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones, as stipulated in the Tetfund Act of 2011. The committee is expected to conclude its first phase of assignments within 30 days and will continue to advise on the establishment and development of the centres, ensuring transparency and merit-based criteria in the selection process.