UNILAG, UNDP Strengthen Ties as UniPod AI Hub Gains Momentum

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have taken a significant step towards fostering an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-focused ecosystem at the institution through the UNILAG UniPod project. On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, both parties formally sealed their commitment with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, hosted the UNDP delegation led by Elsie Attafuah, Resident Representative, UNDP Nigeria. She expressed delight at witnessing the UniPod project materialize following its groundbreaking ceremony in July 2024. As the first Nigerian university to host such a future-ready AI hub, UNILAG is poised to unlock numerous opportunities in AI innovation and technological advancement.

The event also highlighted a moment of pride for the university as it was revealed that an alumnus, Adedoyin, is part of the architectural team designing and implementing the UniPod project. This announcement was made by Mr. Kelechi Onyike, Managing Director of PODEX Associates Limited, the architectural firm behind the initiative. In his presentation, Onyike detailed the hub’s features, which will include an AI Lab, Exhibition Space, Event Space, Design Lab, Design Studio, Maker Space, Collaboration Spaces, and a Pitch Garage. The facility will seamlessly blend functionality with African heritage, incorporating green spaces and indigenous artworks to create an inspiring environment.

With PODEX Associates setting a June 2025 completion date, anticipation for the UniPod's unveiling is high. Attafuah emphasized the increasing global investment in AI and praised UNILAG’s pioneering role in the field. She noted that Zambia is looking to model its own UniPod after UNILAG’s initiative, underscoring the university’s influence in AI-driven education. Expressing gratitude to Professor Ogunsola for her visionary leadership, she reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to ensuring the success of the project.

In response, Professor Ogunsola reiterated UNILAG’s dedication to fostering an ecosystem conducive to innovation and learning. She lauded the PODEX team for their impeccable design, describing it as warm, inviting, and reflective of the university’s commitment to excellence. The event concluded with an exchange of pleasantries and group photographs, marking a significant milestone in UNILAG’s journey towards becoming a leader in AI innovation.

With the UNILAG UniPod project progressing steadily, the partnership between UNILAG and UNDP is set to make a lasting impact on AI research and technological development in Nigeria and beyond.