Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) have commenced construction of a Research and Innovation Centre for Computer and Electrical Engineering (RICCEE) at Rivers State University in Port Harcourt.

The project is designed to expand Nigeria’s indigenous research capacity, advance technological development and strengthen engineering skills while creating closer connections between academic research and industry requirements.

NLNG described RICCEE as its largest human capital development institutional strengthening initiative to date. The facility will provide a platform for advanced research, specialised training and the development of technological solutions for Nigeria’s energy and industrial sectors.

The centre will also accommodate a professorial chair and operate as a research and development hub for industry-focused projects. Research outcomes that prove successful could subsequently be commercialised for broader industrial application.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, NLNG Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Adeleye Falade, represented by the company’s General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Sophia Horsfall, described the project as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future.

Falade said the initiative would strengthen Rivers State University’s capacity to produce highly skilled professionals while enabling the institution to undertake research that directly addresses industry requirements.

He added that RICCEE would help close the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry needs by creating opportunities for researchers and industry professionals to work together on innovations with commercial and developmental relevance.

The Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Felix Ogbe, represented by the Board’s Director of Capacity Building, Abayomi Bamidele, described the project as a significant milestone in the board’s human capital development objectives.

He said the initiative would strengthen partnerships with higher institutions by providing infrastructure capable of improving teaching, research, innovation and practical skills development.

The Vice Chancellor of Rivers State University, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, said the project is consistent with the university’s 2026–2030 strategic development plan, which places emphasis on research collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship.

RICCEE will be constructed on approximately 9,336 square metres of land within Rivers State University.

The facility will contain specialised laboratories dedicated to Electronics and Signal Processing, Robotics and Embedded Systems, Software Engineering, as well as Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity.

Sustainability features will also be incorporated into the centre, including provision for solar energy and energy-efficient lighting. These measures are intended to support reliable research activities while helping to reduce operating costs.

The project forms part of the Institutional Strengthening Projects under NCDMB’s Human Capital Development programme, which is focused on improving Nigerian educational institutions through modern infrastructure, research facilities, technical equipment and training aligned with industry needs.

Source: MSME Africa Online