The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) on Thursday, reaffirmed its commitment to improving educational infrastructure by commissioning three projects at Cross River College of Education in Akamkpa, worth a total of N866,788,454.84.
The commissioned projects funded by TETFund include the School of Education Building, which was part of the 2018 Special High Impact Intervention at a cost of N345,728,721.00; the Department of Cultural and Creative Arts, under the merged Annual interventions from 2021-2023, costing N236,071,119.97; and the Department of Human Kinetics and Physical Education, also part of the merged Annual interventions from 2021-2023, with a cost of N284,986,613.87.
During the commissioning event, TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Arc Sonny Echono, remarked that the completion of these projects reflects the college’s effective use of the intervention funds designated for essential educational infrastructure.
He stated, “We have recently experienced significant market volatility that has affected all sectors of the economy, including construction. Therefore, it brings us joy to witness the completion of projects despite these challenges and to officially inaugurate them. We commend the College Management for this accomplishment.”
Echono further emphasised that TETFund has ensured equitable distribution of funds among its beneficiaries in accordance with relevant laws governing the agency’s operations. He noted that in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” Agenda, the Fund is dedicated to maintaining financial support for public institutions to enhance their global academic standing and ensure graduates are competitive.
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, represented by Education Commissioner Senator Stephen Odey, praised TETFund for its investments in the college, indicating that the socio economic landscape of the region will improve as a result of the college.
Odey highlighted that he has analysed the projects and recognised their significant benefits, urging for proper maintenance to encourage further support from the agency.
Meanwhile, Prof. Patrick Asuquo, Provost of Cross River College of Education, acknowledged TETFund’s contributions and requested additional assistance for the college, including alternative power sources, a perimeter fence, the establishment of an entrepreneurial development center, improved internet access, and upgraded facilities in the medical center to better support students’ academic and personal development.
