The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has commissioned the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Dream Centre at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, describing it as a major milestone in the drive to empower Nigerian youths with digital skills and innovation capacity.
The centre, powered by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), is designed to combine artificial intelligence, digital technology and storytelling to preserve national heritage while equipping students and young people with modern technological competencies.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, said the facility represents a bold step in using technology to document and project the life, values and service of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, fondly referred to as the “Mother of the Nation.”
He highlighted her inspiring journey from her early years as a classroom teacher to her role as wife of a former Lagos State governor, her service as a senator in the National Assembly, her commitment as an ordained minister, and her current position as First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
According to him, her life exemplifies resilience, faith, leadership and dedication to national service, making the centre a valuable learning platform for students and youths across the country.
Inuwa explained that the Dream Centre was established through a strategic partnership between NITDA and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II). While the traditional ruler provided the physical structure, NITDA equipped it with advanced, AI-driven systems to deliver interactive and immersive learning experiences.
“The Ooni delivered the building, and NITDA brought in the technology that gives it life,” he said.
He noted that the centre was designed to appeal to Generation Z and Alpha, who prefer digital engagement to conventional museums and archives. Through artificial intelligence, visitors can interact with the system to explore Senator Tinubu’s life, leadership and values.
Commissioning the centre, the First Lady said the facility was created to equip young Nigerians with relevant digital skills, innovation tools and access to modern technology.
“The centre is designed to empower students and young people with relevant digital skills, innovation tools, and access to modern technology. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to education, youth empowerment, and digital transformation in Nigeria,” she said.
She expressed satisfaction with the strong collaboration between NITDA and the university community and reaffirmed her commitment to supporting initiatives that prepare young Nigerians to thrive and lead in the digital age.
“I remain committed to supporting programmes that will equip our youths with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in today’s technology-driven world,” she added.
Inuwa further stated that the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises innovation, youth development and sustainable growth.
He said the Dream Centre would serve as a hub for leadership development, creativity and national values, using technology to inspire excellence and preserve Nigeria’s history.
Observers at the event described the centre as a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s effort to integrate digital innovation with education and cultural preservation, positioning Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s legacy as a source of motivation for present and future generations.
The Senator Oluremi Tinubu Dream Centre is expected to play a key role in nurturing digitally skilled youths who will contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
