In a major push to expand access to technology-driven education, the Nigerian Senate has passed a bill to upgrade the Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba, into the Federal University of Technology, Asaba, Delta State. The move is part of a broader legislative effort to establish five new federal universities of technology across the country.
The Asaba upgrade bill, sponsored by Senator Ned Munir Nwoko (APC, Delta North), was among several approved, signalling a strategic shift toward advancing technical education, innovation, and regional development, especially in the underrepresented South-South geopolitical zone.
Other bills passed include the Federal University of Technology, Offa (Kwara State) by Senator Ashiru Oyelola Yisa, and Federal University of Technology, Omoku (Rivers State) by Senator Harry Ipaligbo Banigo. The Senate also endorsed the creation of universities in Odukpani (Cross River State), Birnin Kebbi (Kebbi State), Epe and Yaba (Lagos State), and Deba (Gombe State)—bringing a wave of federal educational expansion across the nation.
Also passed are bills for the establishment of the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, Lagos State, sponsored by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Federal University of Science, Deba, Gombe State, sponsored by Senator Danjuma Goje and the Federal University of Technology and Vocational Training, Yaba, Lagos State, also sponsored by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele. Senator's action followed the presentation and consideration of a report by the Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, chaired by Senator Murtari Dandutse (APC, Katsina South).
Presenting the report, Senator Dandutse explained that the bills were earlier read for the second time and referred to the committee for further legislative scrutiny. He noted that the committee held extensive deliberations and consultations before recommending their passage.
Highlighting the objectives of the bills, Dandutse stated that they aim to expand learning opportunities without discrimination and develop academic and professional programs that lead to degrees, diplomas, certificates, and professional qualifications.
During the public hearing for the Asaba bill on May 28, 2025, Senator Ned Nwoko emphasised the urgent national need to bridge regional gaps in the distribution of federal universities of technology.
“The South-South geopolitical zone, despite its immense contribution to Nigeria’s economy—particularly in oil, gas, and manufacturing—does not currently host any Federal University of Technology,” Nwoko stated.
He added that the proposed upgrade would transform an already established institution with a strong technical foundation into a full-fledged university that addresses Nigeria’s 21st-century development needs.
“This is a bold step toward innovation, youth empowerment, and long-term national development,” he concluded.
The bill’s passage has been widely hailed as a strategic move to promote technological education and foster regional equity in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
Credit: Vanguard
