By Nathaniel Zaccheaus, Abuja
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has expressed strong support for a set of legislative proposals aimed at establishing new federal universities across the country, with a focus on specialised education.
He spoke at a public hearing organised by the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Monday.
Akpabio described the proposed institutions as critical drivers of innovation, skills development, and inclusive national growth.
He said the Bills, which seek to create six new specialised universities, mark a significant step toward addressing Nigeria’s growing demand for higher education tailored to sector-specific needs.
“These Bills are not just legislative formalities; they are bold steps towards laying the foundation for a prosperous, inclusive, and innovation-driven Nigeria,” Akpabio stated.
The proposed institutions include the Federal University of Education (Special), Oyo; Federal University of Health Sciences, Funtua, Katsina State; and Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State.
Others include the Federal University of Geomatics, Oyo; the Federal University of Technology and Vocational Studies, Yaba, Lagos State; and the amendment to the Federal University of Technology, Omoku, Rivers State.
Akpabio emphasised the need for an urgent expansion of Nigeria’s educational infrastructure to keep pace with its population growth and evolving development priorities.
He noted that the focus on specialised disciplines such as health sciences, education, technology, and vocational studies is a deliberate strategy to prepare Nigerian youth for 21st-century challenges.
He said, “The goal is not merely to construct university buildings but to empower minds, ignite innovation, and nurture unity.
“Specialised universities will produce the skilled manpower required to drive economic growth and social development.”
The Senate President further stated that institutions like the Federal University of Education (Special), Oyo, and the University of Geomatics are being conceived to serve specific educational and developmental needs, ensuring regional equity and access to quality tertiary education.
Akpabio also commended the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, chaired by Senator Muntari Dandutse, for opening the legislative process to public scrutiny and meaningful stakeholder engagement.
He said, “This hearing provides a vital opportunity for all stakeholders to contribute to shaping the future of education in Nigeria. Let us work together to ensure these institutions become centres of excellence in teaching, research, and national service.”
If passed into law, the establishment of these institutions will increase the number of federal universities in Nigeria to over 60, with a sharper focus on specialised education aligned with the country’s development agenda.
