Bill to establish University of Technology, Ilaro passes second reading

The Nigerian Senate on Thursday passed for second reading, a bill to establish the Federal University of Technology in Ilaro, Ogun State.

The bill which was sponsored by Senator Solomon Adeola Olamilekan is seeking the upgrade of the 44-year-old Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro to a University.

While explaining the general principles of the bill, Senator Adeola stated that the proposed University of Technology would fill the technological gaps in that part of the South Western, adding that Ogun State is the most technologically developed state in the entire South West.

He disclosed that the bill was passed into law in the 9th Senate and was sent to the lower legislative Chamber for concurrence before the session lapsed.

“Senate President Distinguished Colleagues, permit me to read the general principles of the bill to establish the Federal University of Technology, Ilaro.

“The bill which was introduced in 2017 was passed in the 9th Senate and sent to the House of Representatives for concurrence before the session lapsed” he said.

According to him, the establishment of the University will be an upgrade of the Polytechnic which was established in 1978 has received accreditation from the NUC and fully runs degree courses.

He said the University will improve technological development and as well balance educational infrastructure in the South West.

“The University will improve technological development and go a long way in balancing educational infrastructure in the South West”

In his contribution, Senator Ali Ndume said the proposed University is in line with the country’s educational development drive, saying he served his one-year mandatory National Youth Service, NYSC in the school.

“I served in the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro in 1979 and I know Ilaro well, particularly that there was not much to be done since the infrastructure was already on ground.

Supporting the bill, Senator representing Niger North Senatorial District, Sani Musa, said, “the proposed bill should be supported because the world is driving towards technology now.

“Now that the Chairman of Appropriation is the one bringing this bill, I hope he will make adequate appropriation so that the University can function well”

The Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau presiding over Thursday’s plenary passed the bill through voice votes.