Tinubu, Kalu hailed for expanding tertiary education opportunities for Igbo Youths

A member of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), Rep Sam Onuigbo, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, for signing into law three significant bills establishing new federal tertiary institutions in the South-East region.

Onuigbo described the event as historic, praising both leaders for enlarging access to higher education opportunities for young people in the zone. He noted that President Tinubu’s quick assent to the bills further demonstrated his administration’s commitment to inclusive national development and youth empowerment through education.

The three newly signed bills include the establishment of the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Bende, and the Federal College of Education, Bende, both sponsored by Kalu, alongside strong lobbying efforts that led to the establishment of the Federal University, Okigwe, in Imo State.

In a statement he personally signed, Onuigbo hailed the development as a clear reflection of Kalu’s visionary leadership and steadfast dedication to advancing the socio-economic wellbeing of the South-East and Nigeria as a whole. He emphasised that the institutions would not only widen educational access but also drive economic and social growth in Abia and Imo States.

Onuigbo, who previously represented Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, commended President Tinubu for what he called a swift and transformative decision. “This is a clear demonstration of your administration’s resolve to foster inclusive development and equip our youth for the knowledge-driven global economy,” he said.

The lawmaker, who also authored Nigeria’s Climate Change Act of 2021, remarked that increased access to education is critical to producing homegrown, innovative solutions to issues like food insecurity, climate change, and other socio-economic challenges confronting the country.

Onuigbo concluded by noting that Kalu’s legislative advocacy continues to inspire hope for a better, more inclusive future for young Nigerians, while urging continued collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government to prioritise educational development and national growth.