A bill seeking to establish the Federal University of Okigwe in Imo State has successfully passed its third reading in the Senate, bringing the proposed institution one step closer to reality.
Sponsored by Senator Patrick Ndubueze, the bill aims to expand access to quality higher education in key professional fields such as agriculture, environmental sciences, epidemiology, virology, robotics, and nuclear technology.
The university is expected to play a crucial role in advancing research and innovation in these critical sectors.
Speaking on Tuesday, Ndubueze revealed that the Imo State government has already approved all necessary facilities to be taken over by the proposed institution, ensuring a smooth transition once the bill becomes law.
During deliberations, the senate resolved into a committee of the whole, presided over by Barau Jibrin, the deputy senate president, to conduct a detailed review of the bill.
After scrutinising each clause, the bill was formally adopted and passed by lawmakers.
Commending Ndubueze for sponsoring the bill, Jibrin said education remains the foundation of any thriving society.
“I must commend Senator Ndubueze for sponsoring the bill. Education is the bedrock of every society. Any country that treats the issue of education with levity will be doomed,” he said.
Jibrin dismissed suggestions that Nigeria has so many universities, adding that they are not enough.
“I do hope that the president will sign it so that this university will be established,” he added
