Federal Government elevates TASUED to Federal University

The Federal Government has officially adopted Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) in Ijagun, Ogun State, as a Federal University, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s educational landscape.

Established in 2005 by the Ogun State Government, TASUED stands as Nigeria’s first specialised university of education. Named after Dr Tai Solarin, a revered activist and founder of Mayflower School in Ikenne, the institution has played a pivotal role in advancing teacher education in the country.

With this transition, TASUED becomes the first federally owned tertiary institution in Ogun East Senatorial District. Given its well-developed infrastructure and academic programmes, the shift to federal ownership requires minimal additional investment.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the adoption on Friday, expressing gratitude to the Ogun State Government for facilitating the transition. He acknowledged the university as one of the state’s premier educational assets and a valuable addition to the federal education system.

“This is an opportunity for the Federal Government to honour Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who pioneered the revolutionary free education programme in Western Nigeria, and Dr Tai Solarin, who dedicated his life to educating our children and instilling patriotism and leadership values at Mayflower School in Ikenne,” President Tinubu stated.

The President also recognised the critical role played by the Awujale of Ijebuland in ensuring TASUED’s survival when it faced the threat of closure in 2012, just seven years after its establishment.

Both Chief Awolowo and Dr Solarin were prominent figures from Ogun East Senatorial District, which comprises the Ijebu and Remo regions.

President Tinubu reaffirmed that TASUED’s elevation to a Federal University of Education aligns with the government’s broader strategy to strengthen teacher education and enhance instructional quality across all levels of learning.

With this development, the Federal Government now oversees three universities of education: Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education in Owerri, Adeyemi Federal University of Education in Ondo, and now, Tai Solarin Federal University of Education in Ogun State.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
March 9, 2025