The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, announced that the 10th House will focus on ensuring university autonomy to enhance performance.
This promise was made during a public hearing on Tuesday, October 29, regarding five bills aimed at establishing the Federal University of Solid Mineral Development in Michika, Adamawa, as well as four other universities across the country.
Representing Abbas, Rep. Esosa Iyawe, who serves the Oredo Federal Constituency in Edo, conveyed the Speaker’s message, stating, “The House will prioritize university autonomy as seen in other parts of the world to ensure that standards are elevated.”
Abbas acknowledged the concerns many Nigerians have about creating new universities, especially when some existing institutions are underperforming and not meeting global academic standards. However, he emphasized the importance of addressing the growing population, which has left thousands of qualified young Nigerians unable to secure university admissions.
“Universities often reach their admission quotas, highlighting the urgent demand for higher education as our population continues to grow,” he said. “Establishing new universities is part of our response to that demand and aims to expand opportunities for young Nigerians.”
He also stressed that any expansion must accompany efforts to improve and strengthen existing universities to enhance quality and performance. “The National Universities Commission is actively working on reforms to support this goal,” he added.
