Tinubu Polytechnic, Epe University get N2bn funding each from FG

The Federal Government has approved N2bn each as take-off grants for the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic in Abuja and the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe in Lagos State, to support their early operations.

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed this on Thursday during the inauguration of key officials appointed to lead the two institutions.

Among those inaugurated were Prof. Nosiru Onibon, the pioneer Rector of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic, Abuja; Prof. Adeola Oshikoya, Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe; and Dr Angela Ajala, who assumed office as Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education.

Presenting the letters of appointment in Abuja, Alausa said the newly established institutions form part of the Federal Government’s strategy to expand access to higher education and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity in science, technology and innovation.

“Every child in this country deserves access to the highest quality education comparable to global standards. The appointees were carefully selected based on their record of service and achievements across Nigeria’s educational institutions,” the minister said.

“To whom much is given, much is expected. You have been chosen from millions of Nigerians to serve your country, and this recognition extends to your families as well,” he added.

Alausa explained that the N2bn take-off grants for each institution would help them establish essential administrative and academic structures as they begin operations.

He noted that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to building a stronger education system capable of producing the skilled workforce required for national development.

The minister urged the newly appointed leaders to provide strong direction that would shape the identity and long-term development of the institutions.

He also stated that the institutions were strategically located to harness the economic potential and human resources available in Abuja and Lagos State.

According to him, the schools are expected to prioritise areas such as technological innovation, renewable energy, climate change response, disaster risk management and other research fields relevant to national development.

Alausa also congratulated Ajala on her appointment as Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education, emphasising the vital role of teacher education in strengthening Nigeria’s educational system.