The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with the Government of India to establish a Nigerian campus of the globally acclaimed Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). The move aims to promote science, technology, and innovation-driven education in Nigeria and strengthen bilateral relations between both countries.
Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa (CON), made this known during a courtesy visit by the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Abhishek Singh, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja. Dr. Alausa described the plan as a landmark in Nigeria–India educational cooperation and an important part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to the Minister, the Federal Government Academy (FGA), Suleja, has been identified as the proposed flagship site for the project. He said it would be transformed into an autonomous centre of excellence that aligns with the global standards of IIT institutions. To ensure smooth implementation, Dr. Alausa announced the creation of a joint technical working group led by Dr. Layi Olatawura and Mrs. Mary Millicent Nnawuogo to coordinate feasibility studies in partnership with the Indian High Commission.
Dr. Alausa commended India for its support in human capital development through the ITEC and ICCR programmes, praising the IIT system for its global reputation. In response, H.E. Abhishek Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment, citing the success of IIT Madras Zanzibar as a model for the Nigerian project. Both governments pledged to make IIT Nigeria a hub of academic excellence, innovation, and partnership.