Proposed New Federal Universities in Ogun, Kaduna, Kebbi Will Improve Education, Address Insecurity Says Senate President Akpabio

Proposed Federal Universities in Kaduna, Kebbi, Ogun to Improve Education, Address Insecurity — Says Akpabio

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed that establishing the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Manchok, Kaduna State, the Federal University in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, and the Federal University of Technology in Ilaro, Ogun State will enhance education and help address insecurity in Nigeria. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija reports that Akpabio emphasized that the National Assembly will consistently support the creation of tertiary institutions due to the crucial role education plays in combating social issues. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija revealed that Akpabio made these remarks during a public hearing organized by the Senate Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFUND. 

The hearing focused on several bills, including the Federal University, Birnin Kebbi (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB 224), the Nigeria Institute of Mining and Geosciences (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2024 (SB 12), the Federal College of Aviation Technology, Ilara Remo, Ogun State (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB 52); the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Manchok (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB 13); and the Federal University of Technology, Ilaro (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB 345). 

Represented by Senator Gbenga Daniel, Akpabio highlighted the importance of establishing tertiary institutions for the country's progress.

Akpabio said that, "The establishment of these institutions will enhance education in the country and address the gaps in education and workforce development. The Senate, through the Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFUND, will review the memorandum that will serve as the foundation for passing these bills." 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija gathered that the Chairman of Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND, Dandutse Muntari Mohammed (Katsina South), stated that all presentations should be submitted to the committees. 

He added that not all stakeholders would speak due to the recent passing of House of Representatives member, Ekene Adams (Chikun Kajuru), who died that morning. 

Mohammed assured that all bills would be considered, ensuring fair treatment for every constituency. 

In his presentation, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, mentioned that the establishment of the Universities would mark the first federal presence in his constituency. 

Katung noted that many residents currently seek higher education outside the State. He highlighted and emphasise that the new Universities would stimulate the local economy, promote educational advancement and also offer specialized and postgraduate training.