The Federal Government has approved release of more than N250 billion for public universities to help build student hostels across the country.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, made this known on May. 6, in Abuja during the inauguration of chairmen and members of boards under the Federal Ministry of Education, reappointed chief executive officers, a federal polytechnic rector, and principal officers of the Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama.
According to the minister, not less than 50 tertiary institutions will receive N2 billion each for hostel projects.
He said every institution is expected to use the money to provide at least 500 bed spaces for students.
Alausa said the move is to reduce accommodation problems many students are facing in universities and other higher institutions.
He added that this is the first time government is putting this kind of money in one year for hostel development across the country.
The minister said the intervention was approved by President Bola Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He explained that the money will be managed through Tertiary Education Trust Fund, also known as TETFund, which will supervise the projects.
According to him, another N80 billion will also be used for Public Private Partnership projects in 24 federal tertiary institutions.
He said those PPP projects are expected to provide between 1,200 and 1,500 bed spaces in each institution.
Alausa added that TETFund will provide N1 billion as counterpart funding, while private partners will bring the balance, making about N4 billion for each institution.
Speaking during the event, the minister said government reforms in education are focused on increasing access, improving quality, bringing in technology, and making education support national growth.
He told the newly appointed board members and heads of institutions to provide good leadership, remain accountable, and be transparent in managing public funds.
He also asked them to continue existing progress, encourage innovation, and make sure government policies are properly carried out.
Alausa said the Federal Government remains committed to making education a strong part of national development.
He said continuous investment in infrastructure and human capital will be important for long-term progress.
The minister urged the new appointees to lead with vision, integrity, and commitment to excellence.
He said their duty includes building strong academic programmes, supporting lecturers, promoting useful research, protecting student welfare, and creating partnerships.
During the event, Professor Babatunde Lawal Salako was inaugurated as Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Board for Technical Education.
Professor Modupe Adeola Adelabu was also inaugurated as Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Examinations Council.
Shofoyeke David was inaugurated as Executive Secretary of the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration.
Others inaugurated include Engr. Dr Bongfa Bonfa as Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nyak-Shendam, Plateau State.
Professor Tijani Kalli was inaugurated as Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama.
Mr Abba Kaka Goni became Registrar of the university, while Mrs Aisha Halilu was inaugurated as Librarian.
Mr Bashir Zubairu was inaugurated as Bursar of the university, while Professor Idris Ali will head the Bosso campus Co-sharing Committee.
