President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic in the Gwarinpa district of Abuja. This initiative, aimed at enhancing technological and vocational education in Nigeria, aligns with the government’s strategy to ensure that every state in the federation hosts a federal polytechnic.
The Federal Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, conveyed this development in a letter dated January 9, 2025, addressed to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. The letter, received by Wike’s office on January 16, emphasizes the institution’s role in advancing national educational policies by fostering entrepreneurial skills alongside technical and vocational training.
“In view of the above, your Excellency is kindly requested to suggest the proposed locations for the temporary and permanent sites in Gwarinpa for takeoff,” the letter stated.
Dr. Alausa also disclosed plans for an inspection by a technical team from the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). He noted, “The team will review and inspect the recommended locations. Based on their report, final approval will be granted.”
The letter additionally highlighted the possibility of utilizing existing tertiary facilities if feasible, encouraging Wike to consider the takeover of such institutions.
Gwarinpa, a vast residential estate in Abuja, was strategically chosen for the new polytechnic. Known for its sprawling infrastructure, the area is set to become a cornerstone for academic and entrepreneurial growth. President Tinubu’s decision to name the institution after himself has drawn attention, with supporters lauding the move as a legacy project.
The chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, described the decision as monumental for the FCT. “This is a dream come true for residents,” Maikalangu said in a statement through his Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Kingsley Madaki. He added, “The new polytechnic will drive educational and economic development in the area.”
This development comes amidst a broader federal effort to bolster technological education in Nigeria. By naming the institution after himself, Tinubu joins a lineage of Nigerian leaders who have immortalized their contributions to the nation’s development through educational institutions.
Maikalangu praised Tinubu for prioritising education and acknowledged Minister Wike for his role in ensuring the project’s success. “We have never witnessed such concerted efforts to bring education and opportunities closer to the people,” he remarked.
The Ministry of Education’s planned inspection visit by its technical team underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing these challenges. It is expected that the findings from this exercise will shape the rollout and development of the polytechnic.
The announcement has sparked excitement among FCT residents, with many taking to social media to express their optimism. Comments ranged from the institution’s potential impact on youth empowerment to calls for a swift commencement of construction and admissions.
Historically, Abuja has been underrepresented in tertiary education infrastructure. Residents see the new polytechnic as a much-needed addition to the city’s academic landscape. They also celebrated the recent appointment of Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo, the first FCT native to serve as a federal minister, describing it as a reflection of growing inclusivity under Tinubu’s administration.
The Bola Ahmed Tinubu Polytechnic is expected to serve as a template for future educational projects across the federation. By combining vocational and entrepreneurial training, it aims to produce graduates equipped to tackle Nigeria’s pressing economic challenges.
President Tinubu’s focus on education reflects his administration’s belief in the power of learning as a vehicle for progress. “Education is a catalyst for the technological and economic advancement of any nation,” Dr. Alausa noted. “This project underscores the government’s resolve to place education at the heart of national development.”
