As the University of Lagos (UNILAG) launched its 56th convocation week on Monday, January 19, 2026, the institution unveiled a major new facility that signals its push into the digital age: a world-class Digital Multimedia Centre located within the University’s Main Library.
The centre was officially opened by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, who described it as a strategic investment in African scholarship, designed to preserve, document and communicate African knowledge through modern digital media.
“This centre is part of UNILAG’s vision to be future-ready,” she said, adding that the facility will help scholars and students communicate research to global audiences in ways that match today’s digital world.
A Library That Produces Knowledge
The centre’s Hybrid Production Studio was introduced by the University Librarian, Professor Christopher Okiki, who described it as a major shift in the role of the academic library.
“This facility moves the library from being a storehouse of information to becoming a hub for digital scholarship and content creation,” he said.
The studio is equipped with advanced technology, including:
Live production and streaming systems
Robotic PTZ cameras
Virtual green-screen sets
Podcast recording area
Professional microphones
Broadcast-quality lighting
Okiki said the studio will support teaching, research, documentation, and creative experimentation. It will enable students and staff to produce documentaries, academic lectures, digital storytelling, interviews, e-learning resources, and more.
He explained that the facility reflects the evolving way information is consumed, especially by today’s learners who increasingly rely on video, audio and interactive media.
Free Access for Academic Use
The University Librarian also announced that the facility will be available to students, faculty and staff at no cost for academic purposes. External users can access it through a structured fee system that supports sustainability and helps generate revenue for the university.
Okiki acknowledged the financial support from the African Centre of Excellence for Drug Research, Herbal Medicine Development and Regulatory Science (ACEDHARS), led by Professor Omobolanle Ade-Ademilua, which funded the project. He also praised the immediate past University Librarian, Professor Yetunde Zaid, who initiated the project.
A striking mural created by 300-level Creative Arts students now adorns the facility, reflecting the creative spirit and innovation that the studio aims to nurture.
Innovation Exhibition Highlights Student Projects
Following the unveiling, activities moved to the Jelili Omotola Multipurpose Hall, where the Vice-Chancellor opened an exhibition showcasing works and innovations from various UNILAG departments and research centres.
The exhibition, which will run for five days, brought together students, staff, research groups, and partner organisations to display prototypes, research outputs and creative solutions.
Among the notable exhibits was a Transtibal Bionic Limb, developed by final-year Biomedical Engineering students, Hakeem Olunlade and Morola Ogunjeminiyi. The prosthetic limb uses locally sourced materials and integrates AI to create a neuro-muscular link that allows natural movement.
Also on display was FLADOV, an AI-powered business management platform for SMEs developed by Computer Engineering students Titoluwa Amoo and Daniel Ebabhi. The software is a product of the ESDC-BOI Hub accelerator programme and is already live and in use.
Another highlight was Mobile Academy, created by Economics student Abdulquadri Ojure and Biochemistry student Owoeye Oluwajomiloju. The platform helps pre-varsity students prepare for WAEC and UTME using AI to provide past questions and real-time feedback.
A Promising Start to Convocation Week
The 56th convocation ceremonies will continue throughout the week with academic, ceremonial and celebratory events.
With the new Digital Multimedia Centre and the innovation exhibition, UNILAG has set a forward-looking tone for the week, reaffirming its commitment to research, creativity, and national development.
Members of the public are invited to follow the events through UNILAG’s online media channels and join the celebration of academic achievement and innovation.
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