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President Tinubu’s Prior Approval for New Federal Universities Clarified
The Federal Ministry of Education has confirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu authorized the creation of the Federal University of Science and Technology in Epe, Lagos State, before the Federal Executive Council (FEC) implemented a seven-year freeze on establishing new federal tertiary institutions.
Presidential Executive Memo Preceded FEC Moratorium
In an official statement issued by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations, Education Minister Maruf Tunji Alausa explained that the President’s endorsement came through a Presidential Executive Memo prior to the FEC’s moratorium decision. This memo served as the formal approval for the university’s establishment.
Simultaneous Approval of Multiple Federal Universities
Minister Alausa further revealed that alongside the Epe institution, President Tinubu also approved the Federal University of Science and Technology in Kachia, Kaduna State, and the Federal University of Environment and Technology located in Tai and Koroma, Ogoniland, Rivers State. All three universities received presidential consent at the same time.
Delay in Public Announcement Due to Legislative Calendar
The minister clarified that the public disclosure regarding the Epe university was postponed because the Nigerian Senate had entered its 2025 annual recess before passing the university’s establishment bill. Consequently, the bill was only enacted after the National Assembly reconvened, which delayed its official submission to the President.
Government’s Firm Stance on the Moratorium Policy
Reiterating the Federal Government’s dedication to the seven-year moratorium on new federal tertiary institutions, Minister Alausa emphasized that this policy remains inviolable. He assured the public that no additional federal universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education will be founded during this period, except for those already approved prior to the moratorium.
