President Bola Tinubu has signed into law two bills establishing new federal universities: the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences in Iyin Ekiti and the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies in Iragbiji, Osun State.
The announcement was made by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, following the presidential assent at the State House, Abuja.
The Senate had earlier passed both bills, which were sponsored by Bamidele in 2023 and 2024, before they received concurrence from the House of Representatives and secured final approval from the president.
In a statement issued on Thursday, titled ‘NASS Secures Presidential Assent to Federal Universities in Ekiti, Osun’, the Senate Leader underscored the importance of the newly established institutions.
“These universities will help bridge the knowledge gap in science, technology, and innovation while also promoting environmental sustainability and agricultural advancement,” Bamidele stated.
He described the approval as a major milestone in the administration’s efforts to address food security and climate change challenges.
Prior to the president’s assent, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, had written to the presidency on February 19, strongly advocating for the universities’ establishment.
On the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti, Alausa highlighted its role in advancing technology-driven education and research.
“The institution will focus on producing graduates with 21st-century skills in engineering, digital innovation, and applied sciences. It will serve as a hub for research on climate change, renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable urban development,” Alausa explained.
Regarding the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji, he emphasized its significance in tackling food security challenges through research and innovation.
“This university will drive advancements in agriculture, fostering improved farming techniques, agro-processing, and climate-smart agricultural solutions to boost productivity,” he said. “It will also integrate development studies to address socioeconomic challenges in rural areas.”
Alausa further noted that the institution would stimulate economic activities in Iragbiji and surrounding communities while creating employment and business opportunities.
With Tinubu’s approval, the government aims to address deficiencies in environmental technology, food security, and agricultural innovation.
Bamidele lauded the president for prioritizing knowledge-driven development.
“This decision will shape Nigeria’s future in agriculture, environmental science, and technology,” he remarked. “The impact will be felt not just in Ekiti and Osun but across the entire country.”
