Tinubu consents to upgrade of YABATECH to University

President Bola Tinubu has approved the conversion of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a university.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, made the announcement on Friday during a visit to the institution, where he met with its management, staff, and students.

“The rector said some minutes ago that the staff, students, and management of the college have been praying and fasting that it be converted to a university. Somehow, you have kind of ambushed me, but I must let you know that when I discussed the issue with President Bola Tinubu, he did not waste time in approving. I am just waiting for the memo and other necessary protocols from the appropriate quarters,” Alausa stated.

Describing YABATECH as a distinguished institution, he noted that with more than 200 doctorate holders among its faculty, the school is well-equipped for the transition. “All the credit about this should go to the president, who loves education and is concerned about giving the best to the youths who are our future leaders,” he added.

The minister commended the institution for its dedication to academic excellence and assured that the federal government would continue to support advancements in technology and innovation.

Highlighting the administration’s focus on technical and vocational education, Alausa emphasized the importance of equipping young Nigerians with skills in artificial intelligence, robotics, and coding to enhance global employment opportunities.

“We are not taking the issue of artificial intelligence, robotics, coding, and others with levity. We know that if our youths are good at those things, they can be in Nigeria and working for firms in many parts of the world, and they will be earning foreign exchange. That will help stem this Japa of a thing, where people would travel abroad to do menial jobs,” he said.