Author: Esther Matthias

Behind every strong cybersecurity programme is someone quietly asking the difficult questions: Is this current? Is it practical? Will it stand up in the real world? At Miva Open University, Mr Samuel Ubaru is one of those people. As Programme Coordinator and Acting Head of Department for Cybersecurity, he operates at the intersection of academic rigour, industry relevance, and forward-looking research, ensuring that what students learn today prepares them for the realities of tomorrow.

With close to two decades of experience spanning academia and industry, Mr Ubaru brings depth and perspective to the classroom. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Information Technology from Igbinedion University, Okada and a Master’s degree in Computer and Information Systems Security from the University of Salford in Manchester. Currently pursuing a doctorate in Cybersecurity at National Open University of Nigeria, he continues to expand his research in emerging digital threats and AI-driven cyber threat intelligence. Professionally, he has consulted for organisations and multinationals, while also earning globally recognised certifications through bodies such as EC-Council, alongside credentials in IT service management and project governance.

For Mr Ubaru, effective learning goes beyond theoretical explanations. It must translate into application. His lectures are grounded in real-world case studies, simulations, and practical scenarios drawn from professional experience. Students are not only introduced to cybersecurity principles but are challenged to analyse incidents, defend systems, and propose stronger solutions. In his view, learning is only complete when a student can independently apply knowledge to solve complex problems.

Relevance, he insists, is non-negotiable. In a discipline where threats evolve daily, outdated knowledge is not merely ineffective but dangerous. Teaching legacy systems without context does not prepare students for modern attack surfaces or cloud-based infrastructures. This commitment to currency aligns closely with Miva’s AI-forward environment, where lecturers are encouraged to adopt emerging technologies and integrate them meaningfully into curriculum development. For Mr Ubaru, this ecosystem fosters both innovation and accountability.

Teaching in a digital-first university has also reshaped his instructional approach. Unlike conventional classrooms, where spontaneous interaction shapes discussion, Miva’s blended structure requires anticipation. Lectures must address not only present questions but also those students may ask later. This model, he explains, demands clarity, foresight, and intentional design. Yet it also offers flexibility and inclusivity, enabling learners from diverse locations to access industry-aligned education without compromise.

Beyond technical competence, Mr Ubaru emphasises character. Cybersecurity professionals must operate with discipline, patience, and integrity. Beginners, he acknowledges, often feel overwhelmed by terminology and technical depth. His advice is consistent: progress in cybersecurity is cumulative. Mastery does not occur overnight, but steady effort transforms complexity into fluency. Patience, he believes, ultimately separates successful practitioners from those who abandon the journey prematurely.

His inspiration for teaching traces back to his father, a professor of Computer Science, who instilled in him the belief that true understanding is demonstrated through teaching. That philosophy continues to shape his approach. Success is measured not merely by academic results, but by former students who enter the field confidently and ethically. For him, legacy lies in producing graduates who secure systems responsibly and contribute positively to society.

What emerges clearly is that Mr Samuel Ubaru is not simply delivering lectures; he is constructing a foundation. Through industry-aligned curriculum, AI-integrated research, and a commitment to ethical practice, he is strengthening cybersecurity education at Miva Open University. If his students adopt his principles of patience, curiosity, and integrity, they will graduate not only as skilled professionals, but as responsible defenders in an increasingly complex digital world.

For many students today, Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant concept discussed in tech conferences. It is present in our lecture notes, our assignments, our research process, and even our late-night study sessions. In a digital learning environment like Miva Open University, where technology powers our classrooms, the question feels even more personal: Is AI our friend, or is it quietly becoming our worst enemy?

On one hand, AI has become a powerful academic assistant. Students use AI tools to simplify complex concepts, generate research ideas, practice interview questions, and improve their writing. For someone studying remotely, without the physical structure of a traditional campus, AI can feel like a 24/7 tutor. It reduces the frustration of learning alone and increases confidence when tackling unfamiliar topics. In this sense, AI feels like a friend — supportive, accessible, and efficient.

But there is another side to the story. When students begin to depend on AI to think, write, or solve every academic challenge, something subtle happens. Critical thinking weakens. Creativity reduces. The struggle that once built resilience slowly disappears. Education is not just about submitting assignments; it is about developing the ability to reason, question, and innovate. If AI begins to do all the heavy lifting, are we still learning — or merely copying intelligence that is not ours?

There is also the larger concern about the future of work. Many Miva students are preparing for careers in tech, business, media, and emerging industries. AI is rapidly transforming these fields. Some roles are evolving, others are disappearing, and new ones are being created. This reality can be unsettling. However, history has shown that technology does not simply replace people — it replaces people who refuse to adapt. The real threat is not AI itself, but our unwillingness to grow alongside it.

From my point of view, AI is neither a friend nor an enemy. It is a mirror. It reflects how disciplined, ethical, and intentional we are as students. If we use it to enhance understanding, improve productivity, and expand our creativity, it becomes a powerful ally. But if we use it to avoid effort and bypass learning, it quietly becomes our worst enemy — not because it harms us directly, but because it limits our growth.

For Miva students, the challenge is not to reject AI, nor to embrace it blindly. It is to master it without becoming dependent on it. The future belongs not to those who fear artificial intelligence, but to those who understand it — and still choose to think for themselves.

The #LifeAtMiva contest at Miva Open University has once again highlighted the creativity, dedication, and commitment of its student body. Across cohorts, participants shared personal stories, study routines, and reflections on life as a Miva student — and the results impressed both peers and faculty alike.

After careful review, three standout entries emerged as the top winners. Njogbakwam Jessica Onyinyechi from the January 2026 Public Health cohort, Lois Freeman of the September 2025 MBA cohort, and Hyacintha Ikpi from the May 2024 Public Health cohort were recognized for their originality, energy, and authenticity. Their submissions offered unique perspectives on how students balance structured learning with creative engagement, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of Miva learners.

The contest’s quality was so high that organizers extended recognition to a fourth and fifth participant, awarding them airtime prizes for their noteworthy contributions. This move underscored the high level of participation and the enthusiasm students brought to sharing their experiences.

Observers noted that the entries went beyond routine storytelling. Many students showcased structured study routines, innovative ways to engage with coursework, and reflections on personal growth during their time at Miva. These stories demonstrate that the online learning environment is not just about academics but also about fostering creativity, resilience, and community among students.

As the contest closes, the #LifeAtMiva initiative continues to serve as a platform for celebrating student achievements and highlighting the human stories behind online learning. For students and alumni, it is a reminder that the journey of learning extends beyond assignments and exams — it is also about expression, dedication, and the impact of sharing one’s story with a larger community.

#MivaOpenUniversity #MivaStars #MivaCommunity

Innovation has a funny way of testing society’s imagination. Sometimes, the ideas that seem too radical or “impossible” at first later become indispensable parts of daily life. Take the story of Mudashiru Ayeni, for example. In 1971, Ayeni designed the Receptograph, a groundbreaking technology whose purpose and potential many could not immediately grasp. At the time, he was dismissed, even mocked, for an invention that now we celebrate as an essential tool in modern administration and data management.

This story illustrates a timeless truth: when an innovation surpasses the limits of what people can imagine, it often meets skepticism, ridicule, or outright rejection. History is littered with “mad inventors” whose contributions only gained recognition decades later.

Fast forward to today, and the same challenge exists in classrooms, laboratories, and online learning platforms. Students often develop creative solutions, unconventional projects, or forward-thinking ideas that fail to receive acknowledgment because they don’t fit within traditional expectations. A brilliant concept can be overlooked simply because it feels too far ahead, too ambitious, or too different from the norm.

This is where platforms like Miva Open University come in. By providing a supportive environment for students to explore, test, and share their ideas, Miva is creating spaces where “too radical” no longer means “ignored.” Whether it’s through competitions, mentorship, or showcasing student work in the #LifeAtMiva initiative, the university is helping unlock doors for innovations that might otherwise go unnoticed.

The lesson is clear: today’s skepticism can become tomorrow’s celebration. Mudashiru Ayeni’s story reminds us that being ahead of one’s time is often uncomfortable, but persistence, vision, and platforms that nurture creativity can change the narrative. For students at Miva, the message is empowering: your ideas matter, your creativity has space to grow, and even what seems “too far” can one day shape the world.

Innovation doesn’t just happen. It needs courage, support, and a community willing to look beyond what’s familiar — and that’s exactly what Miva is helping to build.

I’ll admit it—I don’t read as much as I used to. Social media scrolls, endless videos, and the constant rush of notifications have replaced the quiet joy of a good book. And I know I’m not alone. Somewhere along the way, we’ve all traded pages for screens, depth for speed, and stories for instant gratification.

But here’s the truth: we’re missing out. Reading isn’t just a pastime; it’s a refuge, a teacher, a friend. It stretches our minds, nurtures empathy, and gives our imaginations wings. A single book can carry us to worlds we’ll never see, introduce us to people we’ll never meet, and make us think in ways we never imagined.

I want to make this a call—not just for myself, but for everyone. Let’s put down the phone long enough to feel the weight of words again. Let’s savor the rhythm of sentences, the slow unfolding of plots, the quiet triumph of finishing a chapter. Reading is not work; it’s comfort, adventure, and wonder rolled into one.

We can scroll, yes—but we can also read. We can skim headlines—but also dive into novels. We can multitask—but also devote a few sacred hours to books that make us laugh, cry, and think. I’m ready to return to the pages. And I hope you will, too.

Let’s bring reading back—not as an obligation, but as a joy. Let’s remind ourselves what it feels like to be truly lost in a story. The world may have rushed on, but books are still waiting, patient, comforting, and full of magic. All we have to do is pick them up again.

I hope you do today 😉.

Miva Open University has steadily built a reputation for making quality education accessible across Nigeria, blending online learning with physical support hubs. practical growth in higher education. These are the available study centers that you can utilize to your advantage.

The Headquarters,Miva Open University is located at:

Abuja: 1059 O.P. Fingesi Road, Mabushi, FCT

Lagos Study Centres:

376 Herbert Macaulay Way, Yaba, Lagos State

Café One, E Centre, 3rd Floor, 1‑11 Commercial Avenue, Yaba, Lagos State

King’s Deck Plaza, 4th Floor, 6a Alternative Route, Behind Atlantic Mall, Chevron Drive, Lekki, Lagos State

Ikeja Town Square, Obafemi Awolowo Way, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State


Port Harcourt Study Centre:

Plot 340 Sani Abacha Road, GRA Phase 3, Port Harcourt, Rivers State


Other Study Centres Across Nigeria:

Ibadan: Café One, The Palms Mall, Ring Road, Ibadan, Oyo State

Uyo: 162 Oron Road, Beside GBW Unisex Saloon, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

Enugu: 22 Okpara Avenue, Achara CCB Building, Enugu State

Kaduna: Café One Uptown Mall, Zaire Road, Barnawa, Kaduna South, Kaduna State

Owerri: Café One, Meksy Plaza, No. 60 Ekwema Crescent Ikenegbu, Owerri, Imo State

Abeokuta: Grazac Technologies Ltd, PROHUB, 38 Salawu Olabode Avenue, Sam Ewang Road, Idi‑Aba, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

So, I hope this helps you out if you ever want to get to the study center.

Excitement is building at Miva Open University as Brainiac Empires Ltd teams up with CSL Stockbrokers Ltd to host the University Trivia Tour on campus.

This high-energy trivia competition is designed to test speed, knowledge, and confidence. Students will compete in fast-paced rounds where quick thinking determines who advances and who goes home. With cash prizes of up to ₦100,000 on the line, the stakes are high and the competition promises to be intense.

Beyond the thrill of the game, the event also delivers real value. Participants will gain practical financial literacy insights, helping them better understand savings, investments, and smart money decisions. It is an opportunity to combine fun with learning in a way that feels engaging rather than academic.

The event promises games, excitement, and bragging rights for the winners. Students are encouraged to check the official event flyer for full details and prepare to step into the spotlight.

For more updates about activities at Miva Open University, visit:
https://miva.university

The Miva Enterprise Club is set to host a powerful edition of its Business Education Series focused on one of the most important questions for young entrepreneurs: how do you build a business that actually lasts?

The session, titled “Becoming a Business Owner: How to Build a Sustainable Business Structure,” will feature Dr. Fred Ojochide Peter alongside Tolulope Toluwase from the MSME Directorate of the Bank of Industry. With the Bank of Industry playing a major role in supporting small and medium-scale enterprises across Nigeria, attendees can expect practical insights into funding structures, compliance, operational systems, and long-term growth strategies.

Rather than focusing only on starting a business, this session will dive into building proper structures, defining roles, managing finances, and creating systems that allow a business to scale beyond the founder. Students, aspiring founders, and existing business owners will gain clarity on what separates short-lived hustles from sustainable enterprises.

The event will hold on 15th February 2026 at 4:00 PM (WAT) via Google Meet, making it accessible to students learning from different locations.

Registration is now open:
https://forms.gle/ygGw78ErpkjEC3f97

Learn more about the university here:
https://miva.university

The question of whether an online degree is enough for the job market has shifted from skepticism to serious consideration in recent years. With online learning becoming mainstream and digital skills increasingly in demand, many prospective graduates are wondering whether earning a degree online can truly open doors in today’s competitive workforce.

A decade ago, online degrees were often viewed with doubt, but perceptions are changing rapidly. Employers today are far more accepting, particularly when the degree comes from an accredited and reputable institution. In Nigeria, Miva Open University, licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC), is leading this transformation by offering fully online programmes across technology, business, and public health. Graduates from Miva are now securing employment opportunities comparable to traditional degree holders, demonstrating that the method of learning does not diminish professional credibility. This shift is driven by the rising quality of online education, improved digital learning technologies, and the normalization of remote work. Increasingly, employers prioritize skills and demonstrated competency over where or how a degree was earned.

Despite growing acceptance, employers still evaluate candidates on multiple factors. The accreditation and reputation of the institution remain important, as degrees from recognized universities like Miva carry significant weight. Equally critical is practical experience, which can include portfolios, internships, or freelance work that complements the degree. Miva’s programmes are designed with this in mind, incorporating real-world projects and interactive learning experiences that allow students to build tangible skills while studying. As a result, graduates with a strong online degree and practical experience often stand out more than those with traditional degrees but limited exposure to applied work.

Online degrees are particularly valuable in the digital economy, where careers in technology, business, digital marketing, data analytics, and information systems are increasingly skills-driven. Familiarity with digital tools, remote collaboration, and self-directed learning gives online graduates an advantage in sectors where virtual work is standard. However, some industries still place greater emphasis on traditional educational pathways. Regulated professions such as medicine, engineering, and certain technical fields often require in-person training, labs, or licensing, while prestige-driven roles may favor degrees from historic brick-and-mortar institutions. In these cases, online degrees are most effective when paired with additional certification, internships, or hybrid learning experiences to meet professional standards.

In conclusion, an online degree from a credible institution like Miva Open University can absolutely qualify a graduate for meaningful career opportunities in Nigeria and beyond. Success depends on pairing the degree with the right skills, practical experience, and real-world application. In today’s evolving job market, what a graduate can do often matters far more than where or how the degree was earned. An online degree opens the door, but it is the candidate’s ability to showcase their skills and readiness that determines whether they walk through it.

Laws are everywhere, but understanding how they actually work? That’s a whole different ball game. That’s where Barr. Bola Odugbesan comes in. He doesn’t just teach what’s written in textbooks — he shows students how administrative law plays out in real ministries, agencies, and government offices. This is where rules meet action, and where future leaders learn to navigate the tricky space of accountability, decision-making, and public service.

Barr. Odugbesan’s journey is solid proof that experience matters. He trained as a lawyer at Ogun State University (now Olabisi Onabanjo University), joined the Nigerian Bar Association, and then took off in the civil service. From the Ministry of Justice to the Ministry of Aviation, Interior, and Defence, he climbed the ranks, eventually retiring as Director of Legal Services. Along the way, he worked on high-profile committees, shaping governance, reforms, and public accountability across the country.

But it’s not all work and no play. He’s a reader, a music lover, and a football fan — someone who balances the intensity of public service with simple joys. That human side makes him relatable to students, showing them that even high-level professionals stay grounded.

At Miva Open University, Barr. Odugbesan brings all of this to life. As Executive in Residence for Administrative Law, he turns complex legal concepts into practical lessons. Students see firsthand how decisions are made in ministries, why procedures matter, and how laws guide real action. It’s not just theory; it’s law in motion, showing students what works, what doesn’t, and why process matters.

For students aiming to lead in public service, this perspective is priceless. Policies can set direction, but understanding the rules and procedures is what makes decisions stick. Learning from Barr. Odugbesan gives them clarity, confidence, and a practical edge in navigating government structures.

Good governance isn’t just about intentions — it’s about doing things the right way, every time. And Barr. Bola Odugbesan helps students see exactly how that works. So here’s the question: are you ready to learn from someone who turns law into action and step confidently into your future as a public service leader?