President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed into law three bills establishing federal tertiary institutions in the South East, a move aimed at expanding access to quality education and fostering regional development. The bills, sponsored by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, will see the creation of the Federal College of Education, Bende; the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Item, both in Abia State; and the Federal University, Okigwe, in Imo State.
The newly signed laws provide the legal framework for the establishment, structure, and operation of the institutions, which are expected to offer a broad range of academic programs and contribute significantly to human capital development. The Federal College of Education, Bende, will offer full-time courses in technology, applied sciences, commerce, arts, humanities, and management, and will conduct research to improve teaching methods and educational outcomes.
Similarly, the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences in Item is envisioned as a center of excellence in medical education and healthcare research. It will provide undergraduate and postgraduate training in various health-related fields and conduct research to advance knowledge and improve public health outcomes across the country.
The Federal University, Okigwe, will offer a wide array of academic and research opportunities designed to meet the educational aspirations of students in Imo State and the wider region.
Reacting to the development, Hon. Benjamin Kalu expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for assenting to the bills and commended the National Assembly for its support. He described the development as a landmark moment for the South East, stating that the new institutions will play a critical role in reshaping the region’s educational landscape and promoting socio-economic development. Kalu also urged residents of the South East to continue supporting the administration, assuring them that more democratic dividends are on the way.
