The National Universities Commission (NUC) has given the green light for the establishment of Kwara State University of Education in Ilorin. This addition brings the total number of state-owned universities in Kwara State to two. The first, located in Malete, has been operational since 2009.
On July 30, 2024, Chris Maiyaki, Acting Executive Secretary of the NUC, officially presented the “Letter of Recognition” for the new university to Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazak, represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, during a ceremony in Abuja.
Maiyaki highlighted that the new institution will meet the growing demand for university education and contribute significantly to the region’s development. He emphasized that a robust university system is essential for national development, noting that the Kwara State University of Education will be the 64th state-owned university and the 274th university in Nigeria.
The approval follows a formal request from the Kwara State Government, which was received by the NUC on July 15. Maiyaki also mentioned that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have been informed about the new university.
In his address, Maiyaki commended Governor AbdulRazak for his foresight in establishing the university. He encouraged more individuals to apply for university positions to help expand Nigeria’s university system, which he noted is still relatively small compared to the country’s population.
Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi underscored the importance of the new university, asserting that education is the cornerstone of all sectors in the state. He assured the NUC that the state government would provide sufficient funding and support for the university’s sustainability. Alabi confirmed that the enabling law for the university has been passed by the State Assembly and signed by the Governor. He also mentioned that the academic curriculum and master plan for the institution are already in place.
Minister of Youths, Jamila Ibrahim Bio, praised the establishment of the new university, stating that it further solidifies Kwara State’s reputation as a center of learning. She committed to supporting the university’s success and ensuring its positive impact on Nigerian students.
