The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved ₦2 billion each as take-off grants for the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic in Abuja and the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe in Epe, Lagos State, to support the commencement of their operations.
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, announced the approval on Thursday during the inauguration of key officials appointed to head the institutions.
Those sworn in include Nosiru Onibon, who will serve as the pioneer Rector of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic in Abuja; Adeola Oshikoya, appointed Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe; and Angela Ajala, who assumed office as Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education.
While presenting the letters of appointment in Abuja, Alausa explained that the establishment of the two institutions forms part of the administration’s broader effort to expand access to higher education and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity in science, technology and innovation.
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According to the minister, the appointees were selected based on their experience and track record within Nigeria’s education sector, adding that the government expects them to provide leadership capable of shaping the long-term growth of the institutions.
He noted that the ₦2 billion take-off grants approved for each school will help them put in place basic administrative and academic structures as they begin operations.
Alausa further stated that the institutions were strategically located to harness the economic potential and human resources in their respective regions, with a focus on advancing research and training in areas such as technological innovation, renewable energy, climate change response and disaster risk management.
The minister also congratulated Ajala on her appointment, highlighting the importance of strengthening teacher education through the National Commission for Colleges of Education to support the development of Nigeria’s education system.