President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday signed two important bills into law, establishing the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies in Iragbiji, Osun State, and the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences in Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State.
The signing of the bills marks a significant step towards expanding Nigeria’s higher education infrastructure, which President Tinubu believes will contribute greatly to the nation’s economic growth and global competitiveness.
The new universities are expected to address the specific educational needs of the Nigerian populace. These institutions will focus on specialized fields that are crucial for the development of the country. According to President Tinubu, they will serve as centres for developing professionals in agriculture, technology, and environmental sciences, all of which are key to the nation’s growth in the 21st century.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, President Tinubu highlighted that these universities will be vital in driving research and innovation. He added that they would play an important role in Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy, which has long been dependent on oil exports. With a focus on agriculture and technology, the new institutions are poised to equip students with the skills needed to transform various sectors of the economy, ranging from farming to environmental management.
“These institutions will provide the necessary training grounds for our students, who will go on to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development. By investing in research and education, we are investing in our future,” the President said.
The establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies in Iragbiji, Osun State, and the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences in Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State, comes as part of the President’s broader vision to ensure that higher education in Nigeria aligns with the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy.
The Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies will focus on addressing the challenges in the agriculture sector, training experts who will help boost the productivity and sustainability of Nigerian farms. This move is in line with the country’s ongoing efforts to ensure food security and reduce reliance on food imports.
On the other hand, the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences in Iyin Ekiti will concentrate on training professionals in the fields of science, technology, and environmental sustainability. As climate change becomes an increasing global concern, Nigeria will need experts who can innovate solutions to protect its natural resources and build a more sustainable future.
Nigeria has made significant progress in expanding its higher education system over the past few decades. According to the National Universities Commission (NUC), the country currently boasts 63 federal universities, 63 state universities, and 149 private universities. However, despite this expansion, there is still a need for more specialised institutions to meet the growing demands of the economy.
The newly established universities are part of an effort to provide students with a wide range of options that cater to specific career paths. This development comes at a time when the demand for skilled professionals in fields like agriculture, technology, and environmental sciences is higher than ever. By focusing on these key areas, the universities will help prepare Nigeria’s next generation of professionals to meet the challenges of the future.
The Nigerian economy has long been reliant on oil, but there are increasing calls for diversification. As global oil prices fluctuate and the world moves towards renewable energy, it has become clear that Nigeria’s economic future must lie in other sectors, including agriculture, technology, and environmental management. The creation of these universities is a strategic step towards that diversification.
The Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies will not only contribute to the country’s food security but will also play a critical role in enhancing Nigeria’s agricultural exports. By training professionals in modern farming techniques and research, the university will help increase the competitiveness of Nigerian agriculture on the global stage.
Meanwhile, the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences in Ekiti will address the pressing need for professionals in the technology and environmental sectors. These fields are increasingly critical as Nigeria faces challenges such as climate change, urbanisation, and the demand for sustainable energy solutions. With the right expertise, Nigeria can position itself as a leader in these emerging sectors.
Additionally, the government has also taken steps to acquire a forfeited private university in Southern Kaduna, which will be transformed into a federal institution. This move is part of the President’s efforts to improve access to quality education in all parts of the country.
Speaking on these developments, President Tinubu noted, “Education is the foundation for a better future. We are working to create institutions that will not only meet the needs of today but will also prepare our youth for the challenges of tomorrow.”
The establishment of these universities is expected to have a positive impact on the local communities where they are situated. In addition to providing quality education, the institutions will create jobs and attract investment to their respective regions. Local businesses will benefit from the influx of students, faculty, and staff, and the universities will help foster the development of their surrounding areas.
The universities will also serve as centres for research and development, collaborating with government agencies, private enterprises, and international organisations to address national and global challenges. In particular, the focus on agriculture and environmental sciences will help Nigeria address issues like deforestation, soil degradation, and the effects of climate change.
