April 29, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has commissioned a newly constructed Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The ICT facility, established under the Renewed Hope Initiative, aims to bridge the digital divide and enhance technological opportunities for youths in the state.
The hub is equipped with state-of-the-art computer systems, internet access, and training modules designed to support innovation, digital literacy, and entrepreneurial growth.
Senator Tinubu named the facility in honor of Chief Mrs. Onikepo Akande, a distinguished businesswoman and former Minister of Industry.
Speaking during the inauguration, the First Lady praised Chief Onikepo Akande for her contributions to Nigeria’s economic development and commitment to women empowerment.
She also commended the wife of Governor Seyi Makinde, Engr. Tamunominini Makinde, for her role in facilitating the ICT Hub project in Oyo state.
Senator Tinubu emphasized the importance of taking precautionary measures to prevent deaths from cervical cancer, tuberculosis, and other deadly diseases.
She stated, “Shortly after we were sworn in, we started putting things together and we had a meeting with all the First Ladies of State and looked at the way we are going to come up with initiatives that will benefit our people.”
The First Lady added, “I am the global champion for Stop TB, and Tuberculosis Advocacy Campaign, end Tuberculosis Advocacy Campaign, because we have to end tuberculosis in Nigeria by 2030.
“So, please, the Government is treating those who have it, and, you know, there is no stigma to it. Tuberculosis is airborne, so, once you have been infected, please get tested.”
As part of the Renewed Hope Initiative, the Presidency also distributed a large consignment of food items to vulnerable groups in Oyo State, including widows, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and low-income households. Senator Tinubu reaffirmed the federal Government’s commitment to inclusive development and called on public and private stakeholders to partner with the government in efforts to uplift disadvantaged communities.
Governor Seyi Makinde thanked Senator Tinubu for citing the ICT hub in Ibadan, describing it as a huge project. He emphasized the importance of investing in human capital development, stating, “The only way to securing economic prosperity that is sustainable is by investing heavily on human capital development.
Makinde also highlighted the potential of ICT and Artificial Intelligence in driving economic growth.
In attendance at the event were the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, wife of the Speaker of House of Representatives, Mrs. Fatimah Abass, wife of governors, and members of the Renewed Hope Initiative
Other attendees included the Federal Minister for ICT, Bosun Tijani, Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Ooni of Ile Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
