Senate approves new universities in Delta and Cross River

The Senate on Thursday approved two bills to set up the Federal University of Agriculture in Orogun, Delta State, and the Federal University of Education in Obudu, Cross River State.

The senators passed these bills after reviewing reports from their Committees on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions, Tertiary Institutions, and TETFund.

The Federal University of Agriculture Act Amendment Bill, 2026, aims to change the current law to create a university in Orogun, Delta State.

The Federal University of Education, Obudu, Cross River State Establishment Bill, 2026, plans to create a university focused on improving teacher education in Nigeria.

Anthony Ani (APC, Ebonyi South) presented the report on the agriculture bill. He said the new university would help boost agricultural growth and support better farming methods.

Mr Ani, speaking for the chairman of the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions, noted that the committee reviewed the bill and confirmed it met legislative standards.

He added that the committee recommended passing the bill because of its importance for national growth and the need for better agricultural education.

On the education bill, Muntari Dandutse (APC, Katsina South) said the new university would help more people get an education and meet the rising need for qualified teachers.

Mr Dandutse mentioned that the committee held a public hearing on the bill in May 2025. Stakeholders showed strong support for the new institution during this hearing.

He explained that the bill aims to upgrade the existing Federal College of Education in Obudu and use its facilities and staff to improve access to higher education.

The senator emphasized that this new university would provide learning opportunities without discrimination based on race, religion, gender, or political views.

The Senate then examined both bills clause by clause in the Committee of the Whole and approved the necessary clauses and schedules.

After this, the bills were read for the third time and passed through voice votes from the senators.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, praised the committee chairmen, members, and other senators for their help in passing the bills.

Mr Akpabio expressed hope that when the president signs the bills, the new institutions will improve access to education and benefit their communities and the country.

He also advised the management of these institutions to follow the National Universities Commission’s (NUC) standards and rules to ensure their certificates are accepted worldwide.