ABUJA — A bill seeking to upgrade Nigeria’s first tertiary institution, Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), to a full-fledged university has passed its second reading in the Senate. The proposed legislation, titled A Bill for an Act to Establish the Yaba Federal University of Technology and Vocational Studies, Lagos State, was debated during plenary on Tuesday.
Leading the debate, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele highlighted that the institution’s conversion had already received presidential approval. He said the bill was intended to provide the necessary legislative framework to formalize the transition of YABATECH into a university status.
According to Bamidele, the proposed university will focus on technical and vocational education, aligning with Nigeria’s broader goals for sustainable development and innovation. “This bill represents a bold step in Nigeria’s push for accessible, modern education tailored to the demands of a 21st-century economy,” he said. “It will provide facilities for learning, encourage research with a focus on technical fields, and be open to all Nigerians, regardless of background.”
The bill received overwhelming support from lawmakers, reflecting growing national consensus on the need to strengthen vocational and technological education as a means of reducing unemployment and preparing the workforce for future challenges.
Following its passage for second reading, the bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFUND for further legislative input. The committee is expected to report back to the full chamber within four weeks.
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