President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday signed into law the bills establishing the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State, and the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji, Osun State.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, through the Directorate of Media and Public Affairs in Abuja.
Bamidele, who sponsored both bills in 2023 and 2024, stated that the universities would bridge the knowledge gap in science, technology, and innovation while also addressing environmental sustainability, climate action, agricultural innovation, and food security in Nigeria.
Significance of the New Universities
According to Bamidele, the Senate and House of Representatives passed the bills based on their strategic national importance, leading to the president’s approval.
He described the decision as “defining and significant” in the government’s efforts to tackle food insecurity and climate change challenges in the country.
“I commend President Tinubu for signing these bills into law, as they will help address knowledge deficits in environmental technology and promote innovative research in food security and agricultural production.”
Minister of Education’s Endorsement
Before President Tinubu’s assent, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, strongly recommended the establishment of the two universities.
In a February 19 letter to the presidency, Alausa affirmed that both institutions met the Federal Ministry of Education’s guidelines and standards for establishing federal universities.
Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti
Alausa highlighted that the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti will focus on technology-driven education and research, producing graduates skilled in:
- Engineering, Digital Innovation, and Applied Sciences, supporting Nigeria’s industrialization and job creation.
- Environmental sciences, offering programs in climate change, renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable urban development.
- Policy research, helping to shape Nigeria’s commitment to global environmental sustainability goals.
Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji
On the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji, Alausa stated that the institution would be:
- A center for advanced agricultural education, research, and innovation, enhancing food security and sustainable farming.
- A hub for climate-smart agriculture, developing improved farming techniques, agro-processing methods, and resilience-building solutions.
- An incubator for agribusiness and entrepreneurship, equipping students with self-employment skills.
- A driver of economic growth in Iragbiji and surrounding communities, creating jobs and business opportunities.
- A research hub for collaborations with international institutions, government agencies, and the private sector to promote agricultural sustainability and community development.
The establishment of these universities aligns with the Tinubu administration’s vision for educational advancement, technological development, and food security in Nigeria.
