The Executive Director of the Oye Ibidapo-Obe Foundation for Educational Transformation, Mrs. Olushola Ibidapo-Obe, has said the proposed Oye Ibidapo-Obe Technical University will drive science, technology, innovation and industrial development in Nigeria.
Speaking in a statement on Wednesday, the widow of former Oyewusi Ibidapo-Obe Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos said efforts are ongoing to realise one of the late professor’s most ambitious visions, five years after his death.
According to her, the institution, situated on a 150-acre site in Ilesa, Osun State, is designed to continue Prof. Ibidapo-Obe’s lifelong dedication to technological advancement, research excellence and national development.
She explained that the university will specialise in emerging fields including Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Renewable Energy, Data Science, Information Systems and Industrial Innovation.
“He wanted an institution that would produce the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers capable of driving Nigeria’s digital transformation and industrial growth,” she said.
Mrs. Ibidapo-Obe disclosed that the university is currently undergoing approval processes with the National Universities Commission and expressed confidence that it would commence operations soon.
She added that the institution is scheduled to be formally unveiled on July 5, 2026, during activities marking the third biennial symposium of the Oye Ibidapo-Obe Foundation for Educational Transformation.
According to her, the foundation remains committed to ensuring world-class infrastructure, staffing and academic standards before the university opens its doors.
The proposed institution has already attracted support from friends, professional associates and development partners of the late academic, with some pledging infrastructure and technological assistance.
Mrs. Ibidapo-Obe revealed that one benefactor has committed to constructing the administrative block, while a financial institution has indicated interest in providing technological support.
She identified key projects for the institution to include perimeter fencing, construction of the main gate, academic buildings and administrative facilities.
“We already have a pool of distinguished professors and academics who are prepared to join us in building a world-class institution,” she said.
Beyond academics, she noted that the university is expected to boost economic development in Osun State and the South-West by creating jobs and attracting investment.
According to her, the institution will generate employment opportunities for academic and non-academic staff while stimulating growth in sectors such as housing, hospitality, transportation, commerce and entrepreneurship.
She also expressed optimism that the university would attract industries and investors seeking a skilled workforce and a research-focused environment.
Explaining why Ilesa was selected as the host community, Mrs. Ibidapo-Obe said the decision was made to honour the late scholar’s roots and contribute to the development of his hometown.
“My husband was from Ilesa and believed strongly in giving back to society. We felt establishing the university there would create lasting opportunities for young people and accelerate development in the area,” she said.
She further disclosed that the foundation’s biennial symposium will bring together leading scholars, researchers and technology experts, with the 2026 edition themed “On Data Spaces for Big Data.”
Expected speakers include David Olowokere, M.A. Rahman, Comfort Oluwaseyi Folorunso, Ebenezer Akinyemi Ajayi, Tolu Aofolaju and Adetunji Philip Adewole.
For Mrs. Ibidapo-Obe, the project is about preserving a legacy and fulfilling a vision.
“I am banking on God and the Bible to preserve my husband’s vision. We have come a long way, and I believe this dream will soon become a reality,” she said.
When operational, the Oye Ibidapo-Obe Technical University is expected to serve as a hub for technological education, innovation and research, supporting Nigeria’s industrialisation and global competitiveness.