Tinubu Pledges Increased Funding For Tertiary Institutions

President Bola Tinubu has pledged the readiness of his administration to inject more funding into all Nigerian universities to be able to compete with their colleagues from other higher institutions across the globe.

President Tinubu who also said his administration was not oblivious of the predicaments in the Universities, assured that his administration was taking steps to decisively address these challenges.

Tinubu stated this on Friday at the 35th Convocation of Adeyemi University of Education in Ondo, Ondo State.

He noted that the paucity of funds to adequately handle administrative matters was a general and perennial challenge confronting most tertiary institutions.

Represented by the Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Professor Adebayo Banire, the president assured Nigerians that Universities and other tertiary institutions have been factored into the plans of his administration for more funding.

“There are wholesome challenges of infrastructural decadence, shortage of manpower and growing insecurity in the campuses, including cult fraternities among students and staff. We are taking commensurate steps to address these challenges decisively.”

“My administration was faced with a serious economic downturn at inception and steps have been taken to fix the economy, which was not too palatable but the positive results of our efforts are becoming noticeable to Nigerians.

“Worthy of mention also is the effort of my administration to be on the same page with the Staff-based Unions of Universities and check incessant industrial actions,” the President said.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Samuel Akintunde disclosed that a total of 18,556 graduating students were conferred with first degrees while 6,269 others bagged the Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE).

Akintunde further stated that 1,501 students were awarded Diploma in Computer Science.

“We are proud of you all, and hope that you will be outstanding in your positive endeavours as you contribute to the development of Nigeria in the various corners of the country you find yourself,” the VC said.

Also, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of the University, Hajia Ganiyat Adeola Yusuf called on the federal government to assist the university in building essential faculties for the expanding academic offerings and accelerated release of startup fund for the University.

“The transition from Adeyemi College of Education to Adeyemi Federal University of Education is no small feat, and your support is crucial,” Hajia Yusuf charged the federal government.

Speaking at the event, Ondo State governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, assured that his government will continue to prioritise education advancement and make lives easy for the citizenry.

Aiyedatiwa further urged the institution not to desist from “the crucial role it is playing in the development of our state and Nigeria at large.”