ICT Directors lament poor funding, internet, power in schools

Nigerian public tertiary institutions are struggling to meet the technological infrastructure required for effective digital transformation due to inadequate funding.

This concern was raised by Directors of Information and Communication Technology (DICTs) during their 2025 annual conference in Abuja.

Organized on Monday by the Committee of Directors of ICT in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions (COMDICT-NTI), the conference was themed “Accelerating Digital Transformation in Nigerian Tertiary Education through Strategic ICT Leadership.”

In his welcome address, COMDICT-NTI Chairman Daniel Yakmut acknowledged that while many institutions have adopted ICT tools for virtual classrooms, digital libraries, and administrative systems, significant barriers remain.

“Although we have made progress in implementing ICT for virtual learning, digital libraries, and e-administration, major gaps persist,” Yakmut said. “Inconsistent power supply, limited broadband access, funding constraints, and resistance to change continue to hinder progress.”

He stressed that despite these challenges, Nigeria’s tertiary education sector can still achieve digital transformation through collaborative leadership, strategic planning, and a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability.

“This conference is an opportunity to assess the challenges and opportunities within our institutions, learn from global best practices and local success stories, and develop actionable plans for improvement,” he added.

Yakmut urged participants to actively engage in panel discussions and workshops, emphasizing that shared insights and partnerships are vital for shaping the future of Nigerian education.

Delivering the keynote address, University of Jos Vice-Chancellor Prof. Tanko Ishaya warned that Nigeria must not fall behind in the global shift toward data-driven campuses.

“Transformative ICT leadership is essential for sustainable tertiary education in Nigeria, enabling a transition from traditional teaching to modern, technology-driven methods,” he said.

He noted that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical gaps in digital infrastructure, forcing institutions to rethink education delivery.

“From virtual classrooms to AI-powered administrative systems, ICT has become the backbone of educational resilience and adaptability,” Ishaya added.

He highlighted the importance of institutional commitment, policy innovation, digital inclusion, and capacity building.

“Leadership must recognize ICT as a strategic driver, not just a support service… Digital literacy should be a foundational skill in 21st-century education,” he stated, calling for collaboration with tech firms and international partners to build resilient systems.

Ishaya urged ICT directors to act as “strategic enablers of educational transformation,” fostering innovation, continuous improvement, and digital advocacy across faculties and student communities.

The conference brought together ICT directors from universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education nationwide, alongside government officials and industry experts committed to advancing digital education in Nigeria.