Tayo lamented that Nigeria, which ought to be a hub for exporting technology, remains largely a consumer nation. This dependence on imported hardware and software, he said, continues to deprive the country of significant revenue and national prosperity.

He made these remarks on Saturday during the inauguration of several new infrastructural projects at the university, part of activities marking the 2025 convocation scheduled for Sunday. The projects include a new Senate Building named after the pioneer Vice‑Chancellor, Prof. Adekunle Alalade; the New Horizon Tech Hub; internal roads; staff quarters; a staff crèche; a ₦70m solar‑powered energy system for the Laz Otti Memorial Library; a sports arcade; and a swimming pool donated by the graduating class, among others.

Speaking with journalists after the event, Tayo said the university’s vision to become a leader in deploying technology across sectors inspired the construction of the New Horizon Tech Hub.

“The New Horizon Building is equipped with facilities for Artificial Intelligence, an incubation centre, and various tools to help students and staff prepare to compete globally,” he explained.

He added, “Sadly, Nigeria has remained a consumer rather than a creator. Almost all our hardware and software are imported, whereas we should also be exporting technology—and this transformation ought to start from our universities.

“That’s why we established this tech hub: to enable our students to develop software, create AI solutions, and innovate. We want them to be creators so that our country can thrive.”

Tayo further noted that while telecommunications and fintech currently drive Africa’s digital GDP, the continent’s core infrastructure for innovation remains underdeveloped. “That is why Babcock University is determined to be at the forefront of driving technology and innovation in Nigeria,” he said.