In a landmark decision, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has granted approval for the establishment of 11 new private universities across Nigeria. This bold move aims to expand the country’s higher education sector while also addressing critical issues within the solid minerals industry.
The meeting, which was presided over by President Bola Tinubu, also saw the approval of N2.5 billion to fund satellite equipment designed to monitor and regulate mining activities nationwide.
Dele Alake, the Minister for Solid Minerals, highlighted that the new satellite technology would be instrumental in monitoring illegal mining operations and unregistered mining sites, which have been wreaking havoc on Nigeria’s natural resources.
He stressed the importance of curbing the massive loss of wealth that the nation has suffered due to unregulated mining. “We’ve lost trillions of naira to illegal exploitation of our solid minerals, and this technology will help prevent further devastation,” Alake stated.
In a further lament on the challenges facing the sector, Alake pointed out the interference by some states, which have unlawfully shut down mining fields. “Though states own the land under the Land Use Act, minerals beneath those lands belong to the Federal Government,” he clarified, explaining the ongoing struggles to ensure proper regulation and control of Nigeria’s mineral resources.
In addition to addressing the mining sector, the FEC also approved the establishment of 11 private universities across various states. Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, confirmed the approval, adding that the federal government would place a temporary moratorium on new university approvals. The newly approved institutions include:
- New City University in Ayetoro, Ogun State
- University of Fortune in Igbotako, Ondo State
- Eranova University in Mabushi and Minaret University in Ikirun, Osun State
- Abubakar Toyin University in Oke-Agba, Kwara State
- Southern Atlantic University in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
- Lens University in Ilemona, Kwara State
- Monarch University in Iyesi-Ota, Ogun State
- Tonnie Iredia University of Communication in Benin City
- Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management in Lagos
- Kevin Eze University in Mgbowo, Enugu State
This significant expansion of private universities aims to enhance the educational landscape in Nigeria, providing more opportunities for students and fostering growth in various academic disciplines.
In another critical move, the FEC approved N1.9 billion for an insurance policy designed to safeguard key government assets, including vital infrastructure in the aviation sector. Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Management, explained that this coverage would protect airports and other critical aviation assets, ensuring their continued operation and security.
These strategic approvals reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s education system, enhancing its natural resource management, and securing its vital infrastructure for the future.
