President Bola Tinubu has approved bills establishing two new federal universities aimed at addressing critical national needs in technology, environmental sciences, and agriculture.
The new institutions, the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences in Iyin Ekiti and the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies in Iragbiji, Osun State, received presidential assent following legislative approval.
The announcement was made by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, on Thursday after the signing of the bills at the State House in Abuja.
Both bills were passed by the Senate in 2023 and 2024, sponsored by Bamidele, and later secured concurrence from the House of Representatives before receiving final approval from President Tinubu.
In a statement titled “NASS Secures Presidential Assent to Federal Universities in Ekiti, Osun,” issued by the Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, Office of the Senate Leader, Bamidele emphasized the significance of the new universities in advancing national development.
He stressed that the universities would play a key role in addressing critical challenges, including science, technology, innovation, environmental sustainability, and agricultural innovation.
“These universities will bridge the knowledge gap in science, technology, and innovation, promote environmental sustainability and climate action, and enhance agricultural innovation and food security in Nigeria,” he stated.
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He also described the presidential assent as a “defining and significant milestone” in the administration’s efforts to tackle food insecurity and climate change challenges.
Before the presidential approval, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, had strongly recommended the establishment of both universities in a letter to the presidency dated 19 February.
Regarding the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti, Alausa highlighted its specialized focus on technology-driven education and research.
“The university will specialise in technology-driven education and research, producing graduates equipped with 21st-century skills in engineering, digital innovation, and applied sciences. It will drive Nigeria’s industrialisation by fostering homegrown technological solutions for economic growth and job creation.”
The university will also focus on environmental sciences, offering programs related to climate change, renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable urban development.
“It will serve as a research hub for developing policies and solutions aligned with Nigeria’s commitment to global environmental sustainability goals,” the statement noted.
For the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji, Alausa outlined its role in advancing agricultural research and innovation, which are crucial to addressing Nigeria’s food security challenges.
“The university will serve as a centre for advanced agricultural education, research, and innovation, contributing to the country’s food security and sustainable agricultural practices.”
He further explained that the university would focus on developing improved farming techniques, agro-processing methods, and climate-smart agriculture solutions to boost productivity and resilience.
“The university will integrate agricultural sciences with development studies, training professionals to address socioeconomic challenges in rural areas. It will foster entrepreneurship and agribusiness, equipping students with skills for self-employment and wealth creation.”
Alausa also emphasized the positive impact the university will have on the local economy, saying, “The university will also stimulate economic activities in Iragbiji and surrounding communities, creating employment and business opportunities.”
Additionally, the university will foster international collaboration in agricultural sustainability and community development.
“It will serve as a hub for collaborative research with international institutions, government agencies, and the private sector to drive innovations in agricultural sustainability and community development,” the statement further stated.
With Tinubu’s approval, the Federal Government has made a significant move to address deficiencies in environmental technology, food security, and agricultural innovation.
Bamidele commended the president for prioritizing knowledge-driven development, noting that the universities will play a vital role in national growth.
“This is a landmark decision that will shape Nigeria’s future in agriculture, environmental science, and technological innovation. The benefits will not only be felt in Osun and Ekiti but across the nation,” he said.