The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the funding on Thursday in Abuja during the inauguration of principal officers appointed to lead the two institutions.
Among those sworn in were Prof. Nosiru Onibon as the pioneer Rector of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic, Abuja, and Prof. Adeola Oshikoya as Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe. Dr Angela Ajala also assumed office as Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education.
Presenting the letters of appointment, Alausa said the institutions were created to expand access to higher education and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity in science and technology.
“Every child in this country deserves access to the highest quality education comparable to global standards,” the minister said. “The appointees were selected based on their record of service and achievements across Nigeria’s educational institutions.”
He added that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aims to build a stronger education system capable of producing skilled workers needed for national development.
According to Alausa, the N2bn grants will help the institutions establish basic administrative and academic structures as they begin operations.
He urged the new leaders to provide clear direction and build institutions that will stand the test of time.
The minister said both schools were strategically located to draw on the economic potential and human resources available in their regions.
He added that the institutions are expected to focus on research and training in areas such as technological innovation, renewable energy, climate change response and disaster risk management.
Alausa also congratulated Ajala on her appointment as head of the National Commission for Colleges of Education, noting that teacher training remains central to the development of Nigeria’s education system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Federal Government approve N2bn for the new institutions?
The grants are intended to help the new polytechnic in Abuja and the university in Epe establish administrative systems, academic structures and essential facilities as they begin operations.
Where are the new institutions located?
The Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic is located in Abuja, while the Federal University of Science and Technology is in Epe, Lagos State.
Who are the key officials appointed?
Prof. Nosiru Onibon was appointed Rector of the Abuja polytechnic, Prof. Adeola Oshikoya became Vice-Chancellor of the Epe university, and Dr Angela Ajala was named Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education.
What areas will the new university focus on?
The Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, is expected to prioritise fields such as technological innovation, renewable energy, climate change response and disaster risk management.
