The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) have provided a cutting-edge information and communication technology (ICT) facility to Sa’adu Zungur University in Bauchi.
During the official inauguration and handover of the new ICT Centre at the university’s main campus in Gadau, Dr. Bala Wunti, Chief Upstream Investment Officer (CUIO), NNPC Limited, stated that the gesture is part of the NNPCL’s corporate social responsibility (CSR).
Bala Wunti stated that for decades, the Joint Venture (JV) has regularly invested in impactful CSR programmes throughout Nigeria.
”Today, the Joint venture is in Bauchi to celebrate the completion of a state-of-the-art ICT centre at the Bauchi State University, Gadau. This is indeed no mean feat and a milestone worthy of celebration.”
“This project is a glimpse of the positive impact of the oil and gas industry on the fortunes of our nation. We kindly request your sustained collaboration as we strive to do more.”
“With the upcoming Kolmani Integrated Development Project, Bauchi and Goribe states are set to become the first 2 states in Northern Nigeria to join the oil-producing states in the country.”
“We look forward to receiving maximum support and cooperation from the state governments, traditional institutions, and host communities to guarantee the desired benefits are actualized in the interest of the nation,” he said
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Osagie Okunbor, Managing Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company, stated that the intervention is a Social Investment project undertaken by the Petroleum Development Company Joint Venture in North-East Nigeria.
According to him, ”The journey to establish this facility was driven by a vision to enhance educational infrastructure, support access to high-demand IT skills and inspire greater IT ecosystem in Bauchi State and North-East Nigeria.”
“The facility, which we are now inaugurating, is a two-floor ICT facility. A key feature of the facility is the visually stimulating collaborative workspace that fosters a environment where students engage in group work and brainstorming session and meetings. This promotes a collaborative work style essential for innovation teamwork.”
“During its construction, we engaged the services of several local contractors who played important roles in executing various scopes of work, ranging from supplies, craftsmanship, medical services, and scaffolding. This is a testar quality of experience in our host communities.”
Earlier in her welcome address, the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Fatimah Tahir, praised the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation NNPC Limited and Shell Petroleum Development Company for the giant project.
She expressed confidence that the initiative will significantly improve teaching and learning, noting that the centre will serve as a hub for innovation and a platform for students to develop their technological abilities.
“I believe that this new new centre will not only benefit Sa’adu Zungur University community but also the society at large. I assure you that this facility will be fully utilized and well taken care of for the benefit of its users” she said.