President Bola Tinubu has approved the conversion of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a university.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa. Dr. Alausa made the announcement on Friday, where he addressed the management, staff, and students, during a working visit to the institution,
Speaking on Friday, during a working visit to the institution, he stated that “The rector mentioned that the college community has been praying and fasting for this transformation.
” When I discussed the matter with President Tinubu, he swiftly approved it. We are now awaiting the official memo and necessary protocols,” Alausa said.
“This school is a legacy, and with over 200 staff members holding doctorate degrees, it is more than ready to become a university. The credit goes to the president, who is committed to education and youth development,” he said.
Alausa highlighted the administration’s focus on technical education as a means to curb the Japa Syndrome—the mass emigration of skilled Nigerians abroad.
“We are prioritizing fields like artificial intelligence, robotics, and coding. With the right skills, Nigerian youths can work for global companies remotely and earn foreign exchange, reducing the need to seek menial jobs overseas,” he explained.
The rector, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, reiterated YABATECH’s readiness to become a university, stating that the institution aims to be a center for technical and vocational education that drives innovation and addresses societal challenges.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Funso Afolabi, urged the minister to support the school’s demands. A bill formalizing the college’s new status and name is expected to be submitted to the National Assembly for approval and presidential assent.
