Federal University Lokoja has successfully passed a Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFund assessment for the establishment of a Three Billion Naira Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Cyber Security, with a TETFund delegation expressing satisfaction with the University's level of preparedness for the project.

The three member delegation, led by Prof. Olufunke R. Vincent, visited the University on Monday June 9, 2026 to assess its compliance with TETFund requirements ahead of the takeoff of the Centre, one of six Centres of Excellence approved across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. Other members of the team were Mohammed Nasir Salilu, Deputy Director at TETFund, and Fatima Muhammad.

Welcoming the delegation, the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Prof. Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, described the visit as a significant milestone for both the institution and the North Central region, noting that the University had long anticipated the project.

"We are really excited. We have been waiting patiently for you to come," the Vice Chancellor said.

Prof. Ibileye informed the team that the University had complied with major directives issued by TETFund, including the appointment of a Director for the Centre and the constitution of an advisory board comprising industry experts and key stakeholders, including a representative of the Governing Council.

According to him, the University has also provided a block within its Information and Communication Technology infrastructure and installed the required signage for the Centre. He assured the delegation of the institution's commitment to ensuring the success of the project.

"We assure you that as an institution, we will do everything humanly possible for the trust of TETFund to be justified," he stated.

The Vice Chancellor further described the Centre as a transformative intervention for the region, stressing that its location in Kogi State would expand opportunities for technological advancement, innovation and professional development across the North Central zone.

"For you to bring this Centre to Kogi State means that you are connecting professionalism to the entire North Central. We assure you that this Centre of Excellence will surpass expectations because of the support we are ready to provide," he added.

In her response, the Team Leader, Prof. Vincent, congratulated the University on its selection for the initiative and explained that TETFund approved six Centres of Excellence to drive cutting edge research, innovation and technological development in strategic fields across the country.

She noted that the Centre would open doors to international collaborations, research grants, global visibility and other opportunities capable of benefiting the University and its host community.

"We have come to see how ready the institution is for this great initiative. Congratulations to the new Director and the entire Federal University Lokoja community," she said.

Prof. Vincent disclosed that Federal University Lokoja distinguished itself during the selection process after meeting critical evaluation criteria considered by the committee.

"The committee looked out for a lot of things and Lokoja stood out on the criteria. With the passion the Vice Chancellor has exhibited so far, we are confident that the University will do great in this regard," she stated.

Following an inspection of facilities and engagements with relevant stakeholders, the team expressed confidence in the University's capacity to successfully host and sustain the Centre.

"With the capacity I have seen, I believe we are good to go. Congratulations once again," she added.

Mohammed Nasir Salilu also echoed the position of the Team Leader, commending the University's efforts and commitment towards meeting the requirements for the project.

A major highlight of the visit was the inspection of facilities designated for the Centre. The delegation toured the building already earmarked for its operations and visited a proposed site where additional infrastructure would be developed.

The team also inspected the Federal University Lokoja Solar Farm to evaluate the institution's power generation capacity, given the importance of uninterrupted electricity supply to advanced research and technological activities in artificial intelligence, robotics and cyber security.

Another highlight was the presentation of the certificate approving the establishment of the Centre of Excellence to the Vice Chancellor.

In her vote of thanks, the Registrar, Dr. Rebecca Aimiohu Okojie, expressed appreciation to the TETFund delegation for the visit and for the confidence reposed in the University through the approval of the Centre.

She also appealed for continued support from TETFund towards the provision of additional infrastructure, particularly student hostels and other facilities required to support the University's growing population and academic aspirations.

The proposed Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Cyber Security is expected to serve as a regional hub for advanced research, innovation, capacity building and industry collaboration in emerging technologies.

Also present at the event were Principal Officers of the University, the Director of the Centre, members of the Advisory Board, the Dean of the Faculty of Computing and other stakeholders. See more pictures here 

© Directorate of Strategic Communication and Corporate Documentation 

Federal University Lokoja