Professor Clement K. Dzidonu, President of Accra Institute of Technology (AIT), has said that the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation demands graduates who are capable of independent thinking, continuous learning, innovation, and responsible leadership.

Professor Clement K. Dzidonu, President of Accra Institute of Technology (AIT).

Professor Dzidonu noted that universities exist not merely to award degrees but to develop capable human beings who can think critically, solve problems creatively, adapt to changing circumstances, and contribute meaningfully to society.

He reiterated AIT’s commitment to producing graduates who are technically competent, ethically grounded, intellectually curious, and globally competitive.

The Accra Institute of Technology (AIT) has officially welcomed newly admitted students into its academic community at a colourful matriculation ceremony held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the university’s Knowledge City Campus-Kokomlemle in Accra.

Speaking on the theme, “Preparing the Sovereign Learner for a World of Opportunity, Possibility and Difference,” the President encouraged students to adopt the Opportunity–Possibility–Difference (OPD) Perspective by recognizing opportunities, exploring possibilities, and creating meaningful differences in their lives and communities. He urged them to see beyond examinations and certificates and focus on building capability, character, and courage.

The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the lives of the new students as they formally became members of the AIT scholarly community, joining a university renowned for excellence in technology-driven education, innovation, research, and professional development.

The matriculating class comprises students pursuing programmes in Engineering, Information Technology, Computer Science, Business Administration, Occupational Health and Safety Management, Project Management, and doctoral studies.

Addressing the matriculating class, the President of AIT, Professor Clement K. Dzidonu, congratulated the students on their admission and challenged them to embrace what he termed “The Age of the Sovereign Learner.” He emphasized that the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation demands graduates who are capable of independent thinking, continuous learning, innovation, and responsible leadership.

Professor Dzidonu further challenged the students to make the most of the opportunities available to them at AIT by attending lectures consistently, acting ethically, managing their time wisely, and committing themselves to lifelong learning.

He reminded them that success at the university would depend not only on the resources and support systems provided by AIT but also on their personal commitment to excellence and self-development.

On behalf of the newly admitted students, Mr. Samuel Peace Kamara delivered the matriculants’ acceptance speech, expressing gratitude to the university’s leadership, faculty, and staff for the warm reception extended to the new students.

He pledged, on behalf of his colleagues, that they would uphold the values of the university, work diligently in their studies, and strive to become responsible professionals capable of making meaningful contributions to society.

The ceremony concluded with a formal declaration admitting the students into membership of the university community and a call on them to embrace the opportunities before them, pursue excellence, and contribute positively to national and global development.

Federal government has dismissed reports suggesting it plans to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, describing the claims as false and misleading.

The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Federal Ministry of Finance and signed by Mrs Maryann Duke, Senior Special Assistant on Communications and Press Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.

According to the ministry, reports linking the alleged taxes to recommendations contained in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation on Nigeria do not reflect the position of the government.

It explained that recommendations contained in IMF consultation reports are advisory in nature and do not constitute policy decisions or binding obligations on the Federal Government.

“The Federal Government is not considering the introduction of any new taxes on telecommunications services or petroleum products,” the statement said.

The ministry also clarified that existing tax arrangements relating to petroleum products remain unchanged.

It stated that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on fuel remains in force and has not been removed.

According to the statement, any fuel surcharge can only be introduced through a ministerial order published in the Official Gazette, noting that no such action is currently under consideration.

The ministry added that the current policy framework has helped cushion the impact of fluctuations in global fuel prices on households and businesses across the country.

On telecommunications services, the government said the excise duty introduced before 2023 had already been repealed under the country’s new tax laws.

It stressed that the duty is no longer in effect.

The ministry urged Nigerians, businesses and media organisations to disregard reports suggesting that new taxes would be imposed on telecommunications services and petroleum products.

It reiterated that Nigeria’s tax reform agenda remains focused on improving revenue administration, promoting economic growth and attracting investments rather than increasing the tax burden on citizens.

The ministry further assured that any future tax policy changes would be communicated through official channels and implemented in accordance with due process and existing legal provisions.

It reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency and responsible economic management aimed at supporting sustainable growth and protecting the welfare of Nigerians.

Federal Government’s commitment to promoting digital inclusion received a major boost as the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commissioned the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Community IT Centre in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the First Lady described the facility as a strategic investment in human capital development and digital empowerment, aimed at equipping citizens with the skills and opportunities required to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

She commended NITDA for its partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative in expanding access to digital infrastructure and opportunities, particularly in underserved communities. According to her, the IT Centre in Ihugh is the fourth facility established through the collaboration, following similar projects in Bauchi, Kwara, Oyo states, among others.

Senator Tinubu noted that the centres are designed to provide access to digital literacy, innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities, especially for women and young people. She urged residents of the community to utilise the facility effectively and ensure its sustainability for the benefit of future generations.

As part of efforts to support economic empowerment at the grassroots, the First Lady also announced a N100 million grant for 2,000 women petty traders in the area, reaffirming the Renewed Hope Initiative’s commitment to improving livelihoods and fostering inclusive development.

In his address, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, described the IT Centre as a catalyst for transformation that would enable residents to acquire digital skills, access emerging technologies and participate meaningfully in the digital economy.

He explained that the centre would serve as a hub for learning, innovation and enterprise development, providing opportunities for students, entrepreneurs and farmers to leverage technology for productivity and economic growth.

According to him, digital tools can significantly enhance agricultural activities by providing access to data-driven solutions such as weather forecasting, soil analysis and precision farming techniques, helping farmers improve output and profitability.

The NITDA Director General also highlighted the agency’s broader interventions in Benue State, including the establishment of a Community ICT Centre in Wannune, nine Digital Learning Centres across the state, and the training of more than 13,300 residents through various digital literacy and skills development programmes.

Governor Hyacinth Alia, who also spoke at the event, described the project as a landmark intervention that would open new opportunities for education, innovation, entrepreneurship and employment. He assured stakeholders of the state’s commitment to providing the infrastructure and support necessary to ensure the centre’s long-term sustainability.

The commissioning of the Ihugh Community IT Centre underscores ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide, expand access to technology and create pathways for inclusive economic growth and development across Nigeria.