Tinubu Approves New Federal Universities In Osun, Ekiti
President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of two new federal universities: the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti, and the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji, Osun State.
The approval followed the signing of two bills at the State House, Abuja, on Thursday, as announced by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele.
The National Assembly had passed both bills—sponsored by Bamidele in 2023 and 2024—before securing concurrence from the House of Representatives and the president’s assent.
A statement from the Senate Leader’s Office, titled “NASS Secures Presidential Assent to Federal Universities in Ekiti, Osun,” highlighted the significance of the institutions in addressing environmental sustainability, climate action, and food security.
“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,” Bamidele stated.
Before Tinubu’s approval, Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa had strongly recommended the establishment of both universities in a letter dated 19 February.
Alausa noted that the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti, would focus on technology-driven education, research, and innovation.
“The university will specialise in engineering, digital innovation, and applied sciences. It will drive Nigeria’s industrialisation by fostering homegrown technological solutions for economic growth and job creation,” he stated.
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He added that the institution would also serve as a research hub for policies on climate change, renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable urban development.
For the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji, the minister emphasised its role in advancing agricultural research and innovation.
“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. It will develop improved farming techniques, agro-processing methods, and climate-smart agriculture solutions to boost productivity,” he said.
He further noted that the institution would integrate agricultural sciences with development studies, fostering entrepreneurship, agribusiness, and economic activities in Iragbiji and its environs.
Bamidele commended Tinubu for prioritising knowledge-driven development, stating that the universities would play a pivotal 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.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
