In a significant move to expand access to tertiary education in Nigeria, a bill proposing the establishment of a Federal University of Technology in Badagry has successfully passed its third reading in the House of Representatives. This milestone brings the region one step closer to bridging the education gap and providing more opportunities for students in Badagry and its surrounding areas.
The proposed legislation, spearheaded by Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, aims to alleviate the pressure on existing institutions and offer a wider range of educational options for local students. As the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources and representative of Badagry Federal Constituency, Hon. Whingan’s persistent advocacy has been instrumental in advancing the bill. The legislation now awaits concurrence in the Senate, marking a crucial phase in its journey to becoming a law.
During the plenary session on May 6, 2025, the Majority Leader, Rep. Julius Ihonvbere, formally presented the third reading of the bill. Hon. James Faleke added his voice to the discussion, emphasizing the need for a technical university in Badagry. He highlighted that many young Nigerians, particularly from the South-West, are seeking education abroad due to limited admission spaces in local institutions. According to Hon. Faleke, “This university is a strategic response to the educational gaps that force many of our brightest minds to look beyond our borders. Lagos has long deserved an additional federal institution with a strong focus on science and technology.”
The passage of the bill has been met with enthusiasm, with Hon. Sesi Whingan expressing gratitude to his colleagues for their support. He described the House’s decision as a major breakthrough for the people of Badagry and the broader Lagos region. “With this development, we are closer than ever to realizing a long-standing aspiration for our people. This is about ensuring that the next generation of Nigerians can study, grow, and contribute meaningfully to society from right here at home,” he added. As the bill moves forward, it is expected to have a positive impact on the region, providing more opportunities for young Nigerians to access quality education and contribute to the country’s growth and development.
