A bill to convert the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a full-fledged university has passed second reading in the Senate.
The proposed law, titled “A Bill for an Act to provide for the Establishment of the Yaba Federal University of Technology and Vocational Studies Yaba, Lagos State,” was sponsored by Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (APC – Ekiti Central).
Bamidele explained that the bill aims to give legal backing to the transformation of YABATECH, which had already been approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu earlier in the year. During a February visit, Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, confirmed the President’s directive to convert the college, calling it “an enduring legacy.”
In his debate, Bamidele said the institution is prepared to meet the educational and structural requirements of a university and will stay true to its mission of producing skilled graduates for the nation’s tech and vocational sectors.
“I am personally excited by the prospect of transforming this Polytechnic into a University of Technology and Vocational Studies as it will motivate both students and academic staff,” Bamidele said.
He added that the upgrade would enhance the school’s capacity, improve infrastructure, and help the institution emulate world-class models like MIT.
The Senate unanimously supported the bill during plenary. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided, referred it to the Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND for further review, with a report expected in four weeks.
In related developments, the Senate also passed bills to establish two more universities:
-
Nigeria Police University of Science and Technology, Erinja, Ogun State – Aimed at improving law enforcement education, security research, and local development.
-
Federal University of Agriculture, Kura, Kano State – To boost agricultural training and meet rising demand for education in the sector.
These legislative efforts reflect an ongoing national push to expand higher education access and align it with evolving national needs.
The Students Forum Nigeria serves as the ultimate hub for Nigerian students, fostering academic growth, social engagement, and knowledge sharing.
