The vision for James Hope University was born out of the philanthropic endeavors of Mr. Jim Ovia, CFR. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Ovia has consistently pursued more than just business success. Deeply committed to the development of Nigeria and the well-being of its people, he has always believed that the fruits of his success should contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.
In line with this belief, he established the James Hope College Foundation in May 2013— a not-for-profit initiative focused on delivering world-class education across the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Through this Foundation, James Hope College, a model secondary school of excellence, was launched in Agbor, Delta State. The college’s success, combined with sustained encouragement from stakeholders, guidance from the National Universities Commission (NUC), and a desire to extend the Foundation’s impact to the highest level of education, inspired the decision to establish James Hope University.
To bring this vision to life, a Planning and Implementation Committee (PIC) comprising seasoned academics and industry experts was formed to oversee the foundational development of the University. In 2021, James Hope University was officially granted its license to operate by the Federal Government of Nigeria through the NUC. The University has since commenced academic activities with an MBA and four Master of Science Programmes in Innovation, Intrepreneurship and Entrepreneurship (IIE); Fintech and Analytics; Finance/ACIB and Economic Development, and Policy Analysis.
James Hope University is uniquely positioned to leverage the opportunities presented by Nigeria’s policy on private university ownership. The institution is committed to fostering a culture of excellence and service. It will strictly adhere to the Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS) set by the NUC, while aligning with both national regulations and global best practices to deliver transformative higher education.
The logo of the James Hope University depicts a shield resting on a ribbon with the motto of the University written across it. The name of the University encompasses the shield and the ribbon. The shield is divided into three parts. A stack of books, an academic building, and a burning torch are enclosed in the middle part of the shield.
The shield represents power and defence, which the University hopes to provide against illiteracy to all who pass through it. The stack of books represents knowledge and scholarship, which are the main activities of the University. The academic building represents excellent scholarship, which the University hopes to excel in and to impart in its graduates. The burning torch represents hope as a core value of the University, which it aspires to imbue in each graduate to enable them excel and prosper.
The motto of James Hope University — Magnitudine suæ spę et educatione, translated as “Hope and Education for Greatness” — is designed to inspire and uplift both staff and students.
This powerful phrase embodies the University’s core mission: to be a beacon of hope and a center of academic excellence. It reflects the belief that through access to quality education and a nurturing environment, individuals can unlock their full potential and achieve greatness — not just for themselves, but for the betterment of society.
Beyond its motivational essence, the motto also signifies the University’s broader commitment to societal advancement. James Hope University aims to be a catalyst for progress by fostering a culture of innovation, conducting impactful research, and developing leaders who will contribute meaningfully to the greatness of mankind.
