Plans to establish a technical university in Ilesa, Osun State, in memory of the late University of Lagos Vice Chancellor, Professor Oyewusi Ibidapo Obe, are at an advanced stage, with the institution set for formal unveiling on July 5, 2026, its promoters have announced.

The Executive Director of the Oye Ibidapo Obe Foundation for Educational Transformation, Mrs. Olushola Ibidapo Obe, widow of the late professor who passed away five years ago, said the proposed Oye Ibidapo Obe Technical University is sited on a 150 acre plot in Ilesa and is currently undergoing the approval process of the National Universities Commission.

Mrs. Ibidapo Obe said the institution would focus on emerging disciplines, including Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Renewable Energy, Data Science, Information Systems, and Industrial Innovation. "He wanted an institution that would produce the next generation of innovators and problem solvers capable of driving Nigeria's digital transformation and industrial growth," she stated.

The foundation has committed to maintaining the highest standards in infrastructure, staffing and academic quality before operations commence. A pool of distinguished professors and academics has already indicated readiness to join the institution. "We already have a pool of distinguished professors and academics who are prepared to join us in building a world class institution," Mrs. Ibidapo Obe said.

The project has attracted support from associates and development partners of the late scholar. One benefactor has undertaken to construct the administrative block, while a financial institution has indicated interest in providing technological support. Priority infrastructure projects include perimeter fencing, construction of the main gate, academic facilities and administrative structures.

The choice of Ilesa as the university's location was deliberate, rooted in the late professor's ties to his hometown. "My husband was from Ilesa and believed strongly in giving back to society. We felt establishing the university there would create lasting opportunities for young people and accelerate development in the area," she said.

Beyond its academic mandate, the institution is expected to stimulate economic activity across Osun State and the South West region through job creation and investment attraction in housing, hospitality, transportation, commerce and entrepreneurship.

The unveiling will coincide with the foundation's third biennial symposium, themed "On Data Spaces for Big Data," which is expected to draw scholars, researchers and technology experts from academia, industry and government. Expected speakers include Professor David Olowokere of Texas Southern University, Professor M. A. Rahman of Lagos State University and Engr. Dr. Comfort Oluwaseyi Folorunso of the University of Lagos.

"I am banking on God and the Bible to preserve my husband's vision. We have come a long way, and I believe this dream will soon become a reality," Mrs. Ibidapo Obe said.