Tinubu Approves Establishment of Two New Federal Universities in Osun and Ekiti

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially approved the creation of two new federal universities aimed at boosting national development in Nigeria....CONTINUE READING>>>

The new institutions include:

• Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences in Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State
• Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies in Iragbiji, Osun State

The announcement came after the signing of the relevant legislation by the President at the State House in Abuja on Thursday. The bills for both universities were sponsored by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, and passed in 2023 and 2024 by the Senate and the House of Representatives before receiving presidential approval.

In a statement titled “NASS Secures Presidential Assent to Federal Universities in Ekiti, Osun,” Bamidele emphasized the significant contribution these universities will make to Nigeria’s development. He noted that the institutions are vital for closing the knowledge gap in areas like science, technology, innovation, environmental sustainability, and agricultural innovation.

Bamidele described the approval as a “defining and significant milestone” that aligns with the government’s efforts to address critical issues like food insecurity and climate change.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, had earlier strongly advocated for these universities. In his February 19 letter to the presidency, Alausa highlighted the role of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences in Iyin Ekiti, which will focus on technology-driven education and research. The university will specialize in engineering, digital innovation, applied sciences, and environmental studies, with an emphasis on climate change, renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable urban development.

According to the statement, the Iyin Ekiti university will be a hub for creating technological solutions that will foster industrialization, economic growth, and job creation in Nigeria.

The Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies in Iragbiji will be dedicated to advancing agricultural research, addressing food security challenges, and promoting sustainable farming practices. Alausa noted that the university would focus on developing climate-smart agriculture solutions, improving farming techniques, and integrating agricultural sciences with development studies. It will also foster entrepreneurship, creating opportunities for self-employment and wealth generation.

Additionally, the Iragbiji university is expected to stimulate economic growth in the region and collaborate with international and local partners to drive innovations in agriculture and community development.

Senator Bamidele praised the president for his commitment to development through knowledge, stressing the importance of these universities in Nigeria’s long-term progress.

This historic decision marks a significant step towards improving Nigeria’s agricultural and environmental sectors, while also fostering technological advancement. The impact will be felt not only in Ekiti and Osun but across the entire country.