Senate Moving to Build Special Universities throughout Nigeria

Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has supported the legislative initiative aimed at expanding the Nigerian tertiary educational landscape through the creation of new special universities throughout the country.

Speaking at a public hearing organized by the Senate Committee on Tertiary and Tetfund Institutions on Monday at the National Assembly Complex, Akpabio described the laws proposed as “on time and strategic,” emphasizing its relevance to the priority of Nigerian development.

The hearing focused on many bills that wanted to establish a special institution, including the Federal University of Education (Special), Oyo; Federal Health Sciences University, Funtua, Katsina State; Federal Technology University, Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State; Federal University of Geomatics, Oyo; University of Technology and Vocational Studies Federal, Yaba, Lagos; and Federal Technology University, Omoku, Rivers State (Amendment).

Akpabio argues that such institutions, especially those that focus on technology, health sciences, vocational education, and services for people with special needs, are very important for national growth and global competitiveness.

“With a population that continues to grow and the economy is increasingly dependent on knowledge and innovation, the University of Technology, Health Sciences, Education, and Vocational Studies play a role in preparing labor that can encourage sustainable development,” he said.

He stressed that the support of senate for these institutions shows a commitment to education that is inclusive, accessible, and relevant to the industry, which he described as vital for national transformation.

“This bill reflects our recognition of critical needs to overcome gaps in special education, create paths for skills development, and ensure regional equality in quality high education access,” Akpabio said.

The President of the Senate also praised the Committee, chaired by Senator Muntari Dandutse, for fostering an inclusive law and the involvement of extensive stakeholders. He described public participation in the legislative process as a constitutional necessity and the characteristics of democratic governance.

“This process is not only about building a new campus, this is about empowering young thoughts, triggering innovation, and strengthening national unity through fair access to education,” he said.

Akpabio urged his colleagues, policy makers, and educational stakeholders to work collaboratively to ensure that the proposed universities, which have been established, are funded adequately, are managed professionally, and in line with the needs of the 21st century learning that developed.

“The sustainability and impact of these institutions will depend not only on their creation but also on how well they are supported, regulated, and integrated into the national development agenda,” he added.