The Federal Government says its investment in tertiary education will help unlock the economic potential of the North Central region.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this while highlighting the government’s investment in tertiary institutions across the region. According to Idris, the 2026 interventions by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) will provide about ₦2.53 billion for each public university.
Each polytechnic will receive about ₦1.87 billion, while ₦2.06 billion will go to each college of education. The minister said the investment would help the North Central region develop its agricultural, mineral and energy resources. He added that it would also support broader economic growth.
FG seeks stronger links between institutions and industries
Idris called for stronger links between tertiary institutions and industries. He said such partnerships would help align research and training with the needs of the economy. The minister also called for greater focus on research, innovation, technical skills and job creation.
He said tertiary institutions must play a bigger role in producing practical solutions to economic challenges. According to him, stronger industry partnerships can help turn research into useful products and services.
Ododo urges institutions to develop practical solutions
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, also urged tertiary institutions to focus on practical solutions to challenges affecting the region. He identified agriculture, mining, healthcare and manufacturing as areas where institutions could make a greater impact.
The governor also highlighted artificial intelligence, renewable energy and security as important areas for research and innovation. Ododo urged institutions to develop solutions that address the needs of their communities and the wider economy.
He said greater collaboration among tertiary institutions, government and industries would help translate research into practical results. The comments came as stakeholders continued discussions on the role of tertiary education in driving economic development across the North Central region.
Read also: School Safety Requires More Than Policing – Education Stakeholders
