Federal Government converts TASUED to federal university

The federal government has officially adopted the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, Ogun State, as a federal university.

This move marks a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s teacher education and expanding access to quality training for educators nationwide.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the transition on Friday, expressing gratitude to the Ogun State Government for inviting the federal government to take over one of the state’s most prestigious educational institutions.

Established in 2005, TASUED is Nigeria’s first specialised university of education and will now become the first federally owned tertiary institution in Ogun East Senatorial District.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu highlighted the historical and educational significance of the decision, calling it a tribute to Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Dr. Tai Solarin, two of the most influential figures in Nigeria’s educational development.

The President also acknowledged the role of the Awujale of Ijebuland in ensuring the university’s survival when it faced the threat of closure in 2012, just seven years after its founding.

With this transition, TASUED joins Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, and Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, as one of the country’s three federal universities dedicated to teacher education.

The President emphasized that this move aligns with his administration’s commitment to improving teacher training and enhancing the quality of education at all levels.

The adoption of TASUED as a federal university is expected to bring national funding and policy support while leveraging the institution’s already well-developed infrastructure and academic programs.

The transition, according to government officials, will require minimal federal investment due to the strong foundation laid by the Ogun state government.

“It is an opportunity for the Federal Government to honor Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who pioneered the revolutionary free education program in Western Nigeria, and Dr. Tai Solarin, who dedicated his life to educating our children and instilling patriotic leadership values at Mayflower School in Ikenne,” Tinubu said.