The House of Representatives has approved the bill for the establishment of the Oba Obafemi Owode Vocational Skills and Entrepreneurship University in Obafemi/Owode local government area of Ogun State. Sponsored by the Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary, Olumide Osoba (APC, Ogun), the bill received overwhelming support during its second reading.
In his presentation, Osoba emphasized that the establishment of the university is not just a legislative action but a significant step towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people and advancing the legislative agenda. He highlighted the pressing issue of high youth unemployment and underemployment in Nigeria, despite various policy interventions, and stressed the need for practical solutions.
Osoba underscored the university's alignment with President Tinubu's vision of promoting vocational skills and entrepreneurship as drivers of economic growth and social development. He emphasized that the university would equip youth with practical skills and knowledge in critical areas such as agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and services, preparing them for the modern economy and empowering them to create opportunities.
The timing of the initiative was noted as particularly auspicious, given Nigeria's rapid economic growth and industrialization, which demand a skilled workforce in various sectors. Osoba highlighted the university's role in preparing students for the industries of tomorrow, which require not only technical proficiency but also entrepreneurial and innovative skills.
The establishment of the Oba Obafemi Owode Vocational Skills and Entrepreneurship University is seen as a foundational step towards a brighter future for Nigeria, offering youth a sense of purpose, steering them away from crime and violence, and empowering them to be agents of positive change in their communities.
