Fed govt stopped new tertiary institutions to consolidate existing ones – President Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu, says the decision by his government to temporarily suspend the creation of new federal tertiary institutions stemmed from the need to consolidate and strengthen existing ones.
Speaking through the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Azure, FUTA, Prof. Temidayo Oladiji, at the 40th convocation ceremony of the University of Ilorin, on Thursday, President Tinubu, said “we prioritize quality over quantity, adequate resources will therefore be channeled to existing institutions to enhance their capacity and impact.
“Similarly, we are resolute in ensuring uninterrupted academic calendars across our universities,” he stated.
President Tinubu also disclosed that the government has paid earned allowances and part of the previously unpaid salaries of academic and non-teaching staff.
He said the loan scheme for tertiary institutions staff, has also been designed to assist them in meeting present economic challenges, it is a genuine economic empowerment, not a burden.
“I am confident that constructive engagement with unions will continue to prevent future industrial disruptions, all staff unions to sustain the spirit of dialogue and cooperation, he urged.
President Tinubu, called on individuals, alumni and the private sector to complement efforts of the government as it remains committed to increased investment in education.
He described education as too important to be left solely to the government, adding that “the partnership of all stakeholders is vital in building a prosperous and knowledge-driven nation.”
President Tinubu, congratulated the graduands and charged them to remember that their degree is not a meal ticket, but a call to leadership and responsibility, hence, they should use their knowledge to change the narrative of the country.
“Be creative, innovative, and resilient, the future belongs to you and it is your generation that must transform Nigeria into a nation of our dreams.”
He admitted that the country is undergoing profound economic reforms designed to restore stability, unlock productivity and secure a prosperous future.
“I acknowledge the temporary hardships Nigerians face today, but assure you these challenges are short-lived.”
In his speech, Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. AbdulWahab Olasupo Egbewole, urged the graduating students to embrace integrity, focus and courage as they step into the next phase of their lives because “the future begins now.”
He described the 40th conversation ceremonies as a milestone and a symbol of maturity and readiness for greater impact, both for the university and its graduates.
According to him, “At 40, a person is seen as mature and responsible. Likewise, our university has come of age, this is the time to stand firm, develop disciplined habits and make deliberate efforts to shape your destiny.
“The future must be protected and not detailed by distractions,” he added.
Prof Egbewole, commended President Tinubu for his administration’s support for the education sector, the Education Minister, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and the Emir of Ilorin among others.
In his goodwill message, the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Prof. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, described fifty years as a significant period in the life of any institution and truly worthy of celebration.
“Over the years, the University of Ilorin has recorded many outstanding achievements and continues to distinguish itself as a true centre of excellence.
“The University has nurtured a culture of critical thinking, scholarship, and intellectual curiosity. Its graduates have excelled in diverse professions, and today we celebrate not only their accomplishments but also their potential to help position our nation to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century,” Prof. Abdullahi stated.
He said the National Universities Commission, as the government’s regulatory agency for university education, remains fully committed to supporting all universities in the Nigerian University system.
“We will continue to monitor their operations and ensure full compliance with regulatory and quality assurance standards, so that all stakeholders derive maximum value from their investment in higher education.
“The Commission particularly notes with satisfaction the University’s impressive success in attracting grants of over N12b from national intervention bodies and international partners within the past two years. We also commend the University’s digital drive and the effective utilisation of TETFund’s one-billion-naira worth of equipment for its Innovation Hub.”
Over 13,868 students of the institution graduated with 316 in First class.