The Ogun State Government has lauded the federal government for its decision to adopt the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) as a federal institution, describing the move as a significant boost for the specialized university.
In a statement released by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, Governor Dapo Abiodun praised the federal government for the development, noting that it would bring positive transformation to TASUED.
Governor Abiodun emphasized the Ogun State Government’s sustained efforts to ensure the institution’s growth and stability since its establishment in 2005. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing education in the state, adding that TASUED will continue to thrive as a centre of excellence in teacher education.
The federal government’s decision was officially approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday, following an invitation from the Ogun State Government. President Tinubu highlighted TASUED’s vital role in producing quality teachers and acknowledged its legacy, which pays tribute to the educational contributions of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Dr. Tai Solarin, a prominent educationist and founder of Mayflower School in Ikenne.
The President also commended the intervention of the Awujale of Ijebuland, whose efforts played a pivotal role in preventing the university’s closure in 2012.
The adoption of TASUED as a federal university is expected to attract increased funding, enhance infrastructure development, and elevate its status as a key institution in Nigeria’s education sector. The transition further cements Ogun State’s reputation as a hub for academic excellence in the country.
With this development, TASUED becomes one of only three universities of education in Nigeria, joining the Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education and the Adeyemi Federal University of Education.
The adoption aligns with the federal government’s broader vision to strengthen teacher education and improve educational standards nationwide. It also reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to enhancing human capital development by investing in institutions that specialize in training educators.
The transition of TASUED is part of a larger federal initiative that has seen the addition of seven new universities of education across the country. These institutions include:
- Federal University of Education, Kano (Kano State)
- Federal University of Education, Zaria (Kaduna State)
- Adeyemi University of Education (Ondo State)
- Alvan Ikoku University of Education (Imo State)
- Federal University of Education, Pankshin (Plateau State)
- Federal University of Education, Kontagora (Niger State)
The Ogun State Government expressed optimism that TASUED’s new status will unlock greater opportunities for academic research, innovation, and the production of highly skilled educators crucial to Nigeria’s educational advancement.