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| Senators approve Yabatech upgrade in plenary today |
A bill to turn Yaba College of Technology into a university passed second reading today in the Senate.
Senate Leader Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele sponsored the bill. He noted the change had presidential backing.
The bill’s full name is “A Bill for an Act to provide for the Establishment of the Yaba Federal University of Technology and Vocational Studies Yaba, Lagos State and to make comprehensive provisions for its due management and administration and for other related matters, 2025.”
The measure aims to upgrade the polytechnic to a university. It will boost its power to grant degrees. It will also widen its research scope.
Yaba College of Technology opened in 1947. It is Nigeria’s first tertiary technical institution. Over decades, it trained thousands in science and tech. It hosts schools in engineering, art, science, business, textile design, and more. It serves mostly Lagos and nearby states.
Leaders say the institution has grown beyond polytechnic limits. They cite rising student numbers and improved facilities. The main gate, lecture halls, and labs all show modern upgrades. Students now seek degrees over diplomas.
In February, Education Minister Tunji Alausa visited the campus. He announced the president approved the upgrade. He said the college met key criteria for a university. The statement came after a detailed review of staff strength, courses, and facilities.
Alausa said Yaba Tech’s programs already match many universities. He said it holds a legacy of technical training. He called it an “enduring national asset.”
During plenary, Bamidele led the debate. He stressed the need for legal backing. He noted the upgrade came by presidential fiat. He said the bill will cement that change in law. He argued it will inspire staff and students.
Other senators spoke in support. One noted the impact on vocational training. Another said it will boost local industries. They said a federal university status will attract more funding.
Key Provisions
1. Name change to Yaba Federal University of Technology and Vocational Studies.
2. Power to award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
3. Governance by a university council, provost replaced by vice-chancellor.
4. Creation of new faculties in vocational studies.
5. Expanded research and extension services.
Academic Staff Union says it welcomes the change. It hopes for better pay and conditions. It wants clear plans for staff promotion.
Students Union praised the move. It said degrees will boost graduate prospects.
Industry Leaders in Lagos voiced support. They note local firms need skilled graduates. They expect new courses in tech and vocational skills.
After second reading, the bill goes to committee. The Committee on Tertiary Institutions will review it. They will hold hearings with staff, students, and experts. They will report back within weeks.
If approved, the bill will return for third reading. Then final passage. Once passed, it goes to the president for assent.
Upgrading Yaba Tech fits a wider push to expand Nigerian universities. New federal universities can ease student overload. They can widen access to degree programs. They can also drive research in tech and vocational fields.
Critics warn of cost. They note federal budgets are tight. They say adding new universities can strain funds. Supporters say the long-term gains in skilled graduates outweigh costs.
Today’s vote marks a big step. It shows government focus on technical and vocational education. If all goes well, Yaba Tech will soon rise as a full university. That will widen its reach and boost Nigerian higher education.