By Barakat Lawal, Iman Aiyeola
The University of Lagos (UNILAG), in collaboration with Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo), Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and in partnership with Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), commissioned the Geoscience Centre of Excellence, which features modern learning and research facilities, such as a seismic laboratory, an up-to-date library, and a digital museum.
The project was commissioned on 17, April, 2026 at the Science Complex (formerly the Faculty of Science).
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Folashade Ogunsola, noted that the centre will “serve as a vessel for interdisciplinary research,” adding that it will offer opportunities across diverse fields of studies, including geosciences, engineering, computer, physics, and environmental science.
She also noted that the centre would serve as an avenue to empower the students of the institution.
“It will offer the opportunity to develop capacity to unlock new avenues of inquiry and empower our scholars to push the boundaries of knowledge,” she said.
“It will equip our students with the critical skills and forward-thinking mindset, necessary to thrive through hands-on learning and advanced teaching technology.”
The Executive Secretary at the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, Engineer Felix Ogbe, noted that the project reflects a commitment to building local capacity, strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global energy industry, as human capital development sits at the core of the Nigerian Content mandate.
The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Tolani Sule, described the project as “an investment in people.”
He noted that it is investing in the young people, Lagos state and for Nigeria at large.
“The centre creates opportunities, environment, where our students can move beyond textbooks and engage with the field,” he said.
“Through experiment, by asking questions and build real competence.”
He noted the project as a major step forward for UNILAG, as it will strengthen the ability to deliver high-quality education.
“It opens the door to more research, collaboration, and stronger partnerships with industry,” he said.
“It reinforces your position as one of the leading institutions, not just in Nigeria, but on the continent.”
He noted that on a national perspective, the Centre’s importance is evident, adding that Nigeria must shift from dependence on foreign expertise in strategic sectors toward building domestic capacity, training local professionals, and delivering indigenous solutions.
He said that the Geoscience Centre of Excellence is designed to meet the need by developing the talent required to advance the energy sector, strengthen resource management, and position Nigeria to compete confidently on the global stage.
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