Nigeria’s House of Representatives has approved the establishment of four new federal universities in Borno, Imo, Kaduna, and Kano States.
Lawmakers say the move aims to expand access to higher education and promote specialized learning across key regions.
The decision came after the adoption of reports on four bills presented by Abubakar Fulata, Chairman of the House Committee on University Education.
The bills seek to upgrade existing institutions and create new specialized universities that will boost academic growth nationwide.
One of the bills repeals the Federal Polytechnic, Kaduna Act, to establish the Federal University of Technology, Kaduna.
Another bill repeals the Nigerian Army University, Biu (Act 2020), replacing it with the Federal University, Biu, in Borno State.
In addition, lawmakers approved a bill to establish the Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, in Imo State. A fourth bill provides for the creation of the Maitama Sule Federal University of Education, Kano.
Presenting the reports, Mr. Fulata explained that the new universities will deliver advanced training in science, technology, and education. He said the Federal University of Technology, Kaduna, will specialize in applied learning and technological innovation. It will also provide training in administration, engineering, and science-based fields relevant to national development.
According to him, the Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education will promote teacher training and research to improve Nigeria’s education system. Fulata noted that the establishment of education-focused universities reflects the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening the teaching profession and addressing manpower shortages.
The lawmaker added that the proposed institutions will also provide a structured framework for academic discipline, student welfare, and modern administration.
Following the House’s approval, the bills will proceed to the Senate for concurrence before being transmitted to President Bola Tinubu for assent.
When signed into law, these universities will join Nigeria’s growing list of federal tertiary institutions aimed at improving access to quality education and closing regional gaps in academic opportunities.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the development, saying it reflects the government’s renewed attention to educational expansion and regional inclusion.