Veritas University, Abuja, has launched a N1.3bn Skills and Innovation Hub designed to equip students with industry relevant competencies, with the facility expected to be completed by January 2027.

The Hub will provide hands on training in technology, entrepreneurship, fashion design, music, creative arts and innovation. It was unveiled during a groundbreaking ceremony at the University's campus on Monday, performed by the Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Hyacinth Ichoku, described the Hub as a strategic investment aimed at producing graduates who can create jobs and solve real world problems. He explained that the centre would serve as the University's main platform for practical learning, where students from different disciplines can refine their talents using modern equipment and digital technologies.

Ichoku stated, "This is a massive project for us because it is supposed to be the melting pot for all manner of skills in the University. The structure will cost us N1.3bn. Work has already started, and the contractor is expected to deliver it by the end of January."

He noted that the University had partnered with global technology companies, including Cisco and Microsoft, to ensure students graduate with internationally recognised professional certifications alongside their academic degrees. "In technology, for example, we provide Cisco and Microsoft training, and every student who passes through Veritas will be certified by Cisco and Microsoft," he said.

The Vice Chancellor added that the Skills Hub would complement the University's Innovation and Engineering Centre, and referenced the Institution's annual Skills Boot Week, which brings together experts and professionals from Nigeria, other African countries and the United Kingdom to mentor students.

He urged Nigerian youths to reject fraudulent means of making money, stressing that skills acquisition, innovation and entrepreneurship remain the most sustainable routes to success.

Philanthropist Dr Josephat Okoye, who has committed more than N200m to the project, disclosed that his support was driven by a desire to contribute to the development of future leaders. "Whatever little I can contribute, with the help of God, I will do to help these young people achieve higher goals in life," he said.

The investment comes amid concerns over graduate employability in Nigeria, with the Federal Government intensifying efforts to promote technical and vocational education as part of broader reforms