TheSecond reading of the bill to convert Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into the Yaba Federal University of Technology and Vocational Studies at the floor of the National Assembly, Tuesday, received commendation from the Rector of the institution, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, emphasizing that “this is not just an upgrade; it’s a commitment to shaping the future of our nation through innovation, research, and skills development.”
The legislative milestone signals a bold step forward in recognizing YABATECH’s legacy and potential as a leading institution in technical and vocational education.
Founded in 1947, YABATECH has long been a pillar of Nigeria’s development, producing generations of skilled Nigerians who Power the economy and industry.
The proposed transformation underscores the institution’s track record of academic excellence, robust infrastructure, and far-reaching impact. It aims to expand academic offerings, deepen research and innovation efforts, and position the institution to meet the evolving needs of Nigeria’s industrial and digital economy.
Reacting to the development during his address, the Rector expressed humility and gratitude, highlighting that the bill’s passage reinforces the institution’s role in nation-building. “This moment belongs to every student, staff, alumna, and partner who has dedicated themselves to our shared vision,” he said, urging collective effort as the process moves closer to full university status.
The move has garnered strong support from President Bola Tinubu, whose government’s Renewed Hope Agenda continues to prioritize educational reforms and development. The President’s backing underscores the significance of the bill and Nigeria’s commitment to investing in its human capital.
Engr. Abdul also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, for his support in advancing this historic initiative, as well as to Senator Opeyemi Bamidele and other members of the National Assembly whose advocacy made it possible.
According the Dr. Abdul: “Yesterday marks a historic and transformative moment in the life of our beloved institution, Yaba College of Technology. I am deeply humbled and honored to address the nation following the second reading of the bill seeking to convert YABATECH into the Yaba Federal University of Technology and Vocational Studies.
“This development is not merely a legislative milestone—it is a national affirmation of YABATECH’s legacy, potential, and future. Founded in 1947, YABATECH has for decades stood as a pillar of excellence in technical and vocational education in Nigeria. Generations of industrious Nigerians have passed through its gates, gaining skills and knowledge that power the engines of our economy.
“The movement toward full university status is a recognition of the College’s consistent academic excellence, its robust infrastructure, its impact on industry, and its role in national development. This upgrade, once completed, will not only expand our academic offerings but will also position the institution to engage more deeply in research, innovation, and enterprise that meet the evolving needs of a digital and industrial economy.
“The significance of this coming at the moment of the 2nd anniversary of my tenure needs to be emphasized—it is both a humbling reminder of how far we’ve come and a clarion call for the work that lies ahead.
“Let me extend my profound gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to educational transformation under the Renewed Hope Agenda. This initiative has clearly begun to manifest across sectors, and the repositioning of YABATECH is a testament to its impact.
“I also wish to sincerely thank the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, for his dedication to driving meaningful reforms in our education sector. Your guidance and support have been instrumental in steering this historic process forward.
“Special appreciation goes to the Distinguished Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, for championing this bill with clarity, courage, and commitment. To all members of the National Assembly who have lent their voice and support to this noble cause—we thank you.
“To our students, staff, alumni, and partners: this moment belongs to you as well. Your dedication, excellence, and enduring belief in YABATECH have brought us this far. As we look ahead to the next chapter, I call on all stakeholders to join hands in building a world-class university that will continue to set the pace in technical and vocational education, not only in Nigeria but across Africa.
“May this development be a source of renewed hope, innovation, and progress for our nation. May YABATECH, soon to be Yaba Federal University of Technology and Vocational Studies, continue to shine as a beacon of excellence for generations to come.
Engr. Dr. Ibraheem Abdul
Rector, Yaba College of Technology
May 14, 2025
