Miva Open University has welcomed 8,000 new students at its 2025 matriculation ceremony in Abuja, marking the institution’s largest intake since its establishment in 2023.
Chancellor Sim Shagaya described the new matriculants as pioneers in a rapidly evolving education landscape shaped by technology, innovation and community. He reaffirmed Miva’s long-term goal of establishing 774 study centres across Nigeria, creating at least one centre in every local government area.
Shagaya highlighted Miva’s growing use of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning, noting that students are already engaging with MIND—the Miva Interactive Neural Dialogue—an AI-powered learning companion designed to personalise and support their academic journey. He explained that these tools are helping “democratise quality at scale” and better prepare learners for the demands of a global digital economy.
“There are also new tools on the horizon, tools that will continue to debate what the implications are for humanity, for Nigeria,” he said. “Tools like artificial intelligence that I personally believe will represent incredible opportunity for us.”
He encouraged the students to approach their studies with curiosity and purpose, urging them to “move where others hesitate” and to match their ambitions with meaningful action.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Tayo Arulogun reflected on the university’s rapid rise since its digital launch in September 2023. He noted that Miva now offers 14 accredited undergraduate programmes and four postgraduate programmes, a growth trajectory that showcases both scale and quality.
“Today, we multiply our largest single intake since inception, a milestone that reflects the great confidence in our mission,” he said. He added that thousands of learners have joined Miva within two years of its launch, demonstrating strong demand for flexible and technology-driven education.
Delivering the keynote address, former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola urged the new students to recognise the lifelong commitment they have made. He praised the chancellor’s vision and encouraged the students to adopt the same clarity and determination.
Fashola inspired the matriculants to think beyond themselves, saying, “Just imagine if the 8,000 who are matriculating today also followed their vision and connected another 8,000 persons each.”
He also commended Miva’s innovative approach, especially its inclusion of professors of practice, who bring real-world industry experience into the classroom. According to him, these experts help students connect academic principles with real-life applications.
Fashola reminded the students that academic success goes hand in hand with strong character and discipline. “Knowledge alone will not be enough. Your character will be the most important factor,” he said. He urged them to stay focused, avoid distractions and uphold the values that define truly successful graduates.
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