Bola Ahmed Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed into law the bill establishing the Federal University of Technology, Ilaro—officially upgrading the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro in Ogun State to a full-fledged university.

The development was announced by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who described it as a landmark decision. He also congratulated Senator Olamilekan Adeola, the sponsor of the bill, and the people of Ogun West Senatorial District.

The bill, which passed its third reading in October 2024, now transforms one of Nigeria’s foremost polytechnics into a university-level institution dedicated to technological advancement.

Reacting to the presidential assent, Senator Adeola expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his support under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He described the development as a long-overdue dream come true for the people of Ogun West.

“My senatorial district was the only one in Ogun State without a federal university. We are grateful to the president for recognising the need to establish a university of technology in this industrial hub,” Senator Adeola said.

He recalled that his advocacy for the institution’s upgrade began in 2016 during the 8th National Assembly. Although the bill passed the Senate under then-Senate President Bukola Saraki, it failed in the House of Representatives. A similar fate befell the bill during the 9th Assembly despite approval from both chambers, as it did not receive presidential assent.

Adeola said he is delighted that the 10th National Assembly has finally achieved the goal, describing it as a historic victory for education in Ogun State.

The senator also noted that the polytechnic already boasts superior infrastructure and experienced personnel, making it suitable for elevation. He lauded Tinubu’s broader educational reforms, including the student loan programme and increased funding for tertiary education.

The new university is expected to enhance access to technical education and support economic development in Ogun West, a region known for its thriving industrial base.