MTN, IBBUL Explore Strategic Digital-Transformation Partnership

MTN Nigeria is in talks with Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai (IBBUL), on a potential digital-transformation partnership geared towards strengthening the university’s ICT backbone and expanding access to modern technological tools.

A high-level MTN delegation, led by the Regional Sales Manager (North-Central and Public Sector), Mr. Abubakar Dankani, visited the university to present areas where the company’s emerging-technology solutions could fast-track IBBUL’s digital evolution. Dankani noted that MTN has transitioned into a fully integrated technology company offering end-to-end digital services, stressing that tertiary institutions must play a leading role in the global shift from analogue to digital systems.

He highlighted possible collaboration areas, including data-centre hosting, cloud services, enterprise applications, cybersecurity, and digital automation. Dankani also showcased MTN’s newly launched Tier III Data Centre in Lagos, designed to provide secure and locally compliant cloud and data-hosting solutions. He encouraged the university to outline its priority needs so MTN can develop customised solutions for academic and administrative operations.

Offering a technical overview, MTN’s representative, Mr. Collins Agu, explained that the company now deploys integrated ICT solutions that enhance productivity, security, collaboration, and workflow automation. He referenced MTN’s partnership with Microsoft, which enables accredited educational institutions to access discounted Microsoft 365 tools—including virtual-classroom platforms, secure cloud storage, and productivity suites.

Agu also emphasized MTN’s low-code automation tools for processes such as attendance tracking, memo approvals, requisitions, and e-signatures, while detailing the company’s cybersecurity support, which covers staff training, phishing-simulation tests, device-security policies, and remote data-wipe options.
He further noted that MTN’s data-centre pricing model—denominated fully in naira and based on pay-as-you-use—reduces capital expenditure and eliminates foreign-exchange burdens.

Another MTN representative, Mrs. Nanklin, demonstrated digital tools designed to boost communication and operational efficiency across the university. These include MTN’s ringback-tune messaging service for official announcements, the M-Survey platform for real-time student feedback, enterprise call-centre solutions, campus-wide internet connectivity, and solar-powered surveillance cameras with cloud storage and two-way audio features.
She also cited cost-saving initiatives such as Closed User Group (CUG) plans, which can slash staff call expenses from over ₦5,000 monthly to as low as ₦1,000.

Responding, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Salihu Niworu, described the engagement as timely, noting that IBBUL is currently intensifying efforts to expand its digital-transformation agenda. While welcoming MTN’s proposals, he stressed the importance of clear implementation frameworks, cost transparency, and sustainability plans.

The Registrar, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki, appreciated the MTN team and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to adopting technologies that streamline administration and safeguard institutional data. He confirmed that all proposals will be evaluated to ensure alignment with the university’s long-term goals.