Ijebu Ode (Ogun, Nigeria) The Federal Government, on Thursday, officially took over the ownership and management of the Tai Solarin Federal University of Education (TASFUED), Ijagun, from the Ogun State Government.
The Memorandum of Understanding between Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Minister of State for Education Dr Suwaiba Ahmad was signed during the university’s 17th convocation in Ijagun.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ahmad expressed delight at the symbolic transfer of ownership of the university from the Ogun State Government to the Federal Government.
She described the occasion as a defining moment in the university’s journey and in the federal government’s resolve to reposition education as the foundation for renewal, stability, and shared prosperity.
The minister said the transition reflects the university’s commitment to its mission.
Tai Solarin Federal University of Education occupies a special place in Nigeria’s educational development as the premier university of education.
The minister highlighted that the federal government’s adoption of the university from the Ogun state government, which will officially take effect in March 2025, was a deliberate and strategic move guided by national interest.
She said it shows belief in quality teachers and investment in educational reform.
Ahmad praised Ogun state’s stewardship and the vision of the university’s founders.
She noted that the signing of the MoU formally consummated the university’s transition into the federal university system, underscoring a shared commitment to institutional stability and sustainable growth.
She said the move aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on institutional and human capital investment.
The minister congratulated graduates and noted the university’s distinctive role.
She said the university’s adoption as a federal institution recognised the progress it had recorded over its 20 years of existence, marked by innovation and excellence in academic and administrative practices.
Ahmad credited Nigerians’ advocacy, including that of Governor Abiodun, for strengthening the process.
Abiodun said the adoption promotes equity and brings a federal university to Ogun East.
He thanked President Tinubu, saying the move underscores the commitment to human capital development.
The governor said the university has maintained its position as Nigeria’s first university of education, with a 100 per cent accreditation record for its programmes by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
He said federal adoption balances university distribution and boosts teacher education.
Earlier, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Adekunle Adeogun, identified student accommodation as a major challenge and appealed to stakeholders to support the provision of safe and conducive living environments.
He also stressed the need to expand lecture facilities to meet the university’s new status, including the construction of multipurpose lecture theatres and smart classrooms.
The event also included the conferment of honorary degrees on Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, Gov. Abiodun, and Chief Olusegun Osoba. First Lady was represented by the Vice President’s wife, Hajia Nana Shettima.
Dignitaries at the event included Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle; Olowu of Owu, Oba Saka Matemilola; and Ebumawe of Ago Iwoye, Oba Razaq Adenugba, among others.
PIX IN MAILBOX, DESKTOP: TAI SOLARIN UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION
PHOTO CREDIT: NANCAPTION: Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Ahmad with Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun
