203
In a country where the need for quality education is a constant topic of national discourse, the story of those who dare to build institutions that last is always worth telling. Today, we turn our attention to one such figure, a man whose name is etched in the annals of both Nigeria’s political history and its academic landscape. We are talking about the founder of Bells University of Technology, a former Head of State and President of our great nation, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. This is not just a story of a university; it is a tale of vision, commitment, and a deep-seated belief in the power of knowledge and innovation to transform a society.
The story of Bells University began not in a classroom, but in the mind of a leader who saw a pressing need for a different kind of education in Nigeria. While serving as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Bells Educational Foundation, Chief Obasanjo conceived a plan to expand the foundation’s work from secondary education to the tertiary level. His motivation was simple yet profound: he believed that for Nigeria to take its rightful place on the global stage, it needed to produce a new generation of thinkers, innovators, and entrepreneurs who were well-versed in technology. The conventional university system, in his view, was not adequately meeting this demand. He envisioned an institution that would not just teach theories but would equip students with practical skills that could be applied directly to solve real-world problems. It was a vision of a university that would be a hub of creativity and practical expertise.
When Bells University of Technology was founded in 2005, many Nigerians were still sceptical about the capacity of private universities to deliver quality education. At the time, public universities dominated the sector, but they were already facing challenges of overcrowding, strikes, and limited resources. Against this background, Obasanjo’s initiative to establish a private technology-based university was seen as bold and forward-thinking. Today, nearly two decades later, that vision has grown into a respected institution producing graduates across various fields.
Chief Olusegun Obasanjo is a name that needs no introduction. Beyond politics and governance, where he served as Head of State and later as civilian President, he has always carried a reputation for being a farmer, thinker, and nation-builder. His interest in education has been long-standing. From the days of his Ota farm project to his international work with the United Nations and African Union, Obasanjo has often emphasized the role of education in national development. Bells University of Technology is one of the legacies through which he seeks to impact future generations.
The school began operations in 2005 with just a few faculties but has since grown into a full-fledged university offering courses in engineering, sciences, management, arts, and social sciences. The emphasis, however, remains on technology-driven knowledge. The university has been accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), further boosting its credibility in the competitive Nigerian education space.
What sets Bells University apart is the blend of discipline and innovation it instills in its students. While private universities in Nigeria are often criticized for being elitist or profit-driven, Bells has managed to create a balance. Its tuition may not be affordable to every Nigerian family, but the facilities, staff, and environment are designed to justify the investment. Students and alumni often testify to the school’s strict adherence to academic calendars, a sharp contrast to the unpredictability associated with public institutions.
Obasanjo’s decision to situate the university in Ota is also significant. The area has become a hub for education and industry, hosting institutions like Covenant University and several polytechnics. For Bells, this location provides both accessibility and a unique academic environment that blends industry exposure with classroom knowledge. The choice further reflects Obasanjo’s tendency to tie development projects to his Ogun State roots, thereby giving back to his community while impacting the nation at large.
Over the years, the university has continued to strengthen its academic programs and expand facilities. Modern laboratories, digital libraries, and collaborations with international institutions have become part of its story. Students are encouraged to think beyond classrooms, engaging in entrepreneurship, innovation, and research projects that can make a real impact in society.
As with any institution, Bells University has faced its share of criticisms. Some argue that the fees place it out of reach for many Nigerians, while others question whether it has fully lived up to its vision of being a technology powerhouse. Yet, it cannot be denied that the school has survived and grown in an environment where many private universities struggle to stay afloat. Its continued existence and expansion prove that the founder’s dream was not misplaced.
For Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Bells University is not just another project but a legacy. It reflects his belief in education as a tool for empowerment and national progress. For Nigeria, it stands as one of the testimonies that private universities can contribute meaningfully to closing the gap in higher education. As it continues to evolve, the university remains a reminder that one person’s vision can lead to opportunities for thousands.
