Tinubu Approves Establishment of New Polytechnic in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has officially approved the establishment of a new Federal Polytechnic in the Gwarinpa District of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), marking a significant step towards enhancing technical, vocational, and entrepreneurial education in Nigeria. The polytechnic, named Bola Ahmed Tinubu Polytechnic, Gwarinpa, is part of the government’s commitment to promoting skill-based education in line with Nigeria’s national policy on education.

In a letter dated January 16, 2025, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, confirmed the approval and addressed the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, urging him to propose suitable locations for the institution’s temporary and permanent sites. A technical team from the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) is expected to inspect the proposed locations before a final decision on the takeoff site is made.

The new polytechnic is expected to play a pivotal role in fostering technological and vocational education, particularly in the FCT, where there is growing demand for accessible and quality education focused on skills development. The institution will also contribute to Nigeria’s broader educational reform efforts aimed at producing a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of various industries.

Commendation from Local Leadership

The Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, expressed his appreciation for the establishment of the new polytechnic. Maikalangu described the initiative as a “dream come true” for the residents of Abuja, especially for those in Gwarinpa, who will directly benefit from the institution.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Kingsley Madaki, Maikalangu acknowledged the support of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike in making the project a reality, noting the positive impact it will have on the educational landscape of the FCT.

“The establishment of the Federal Polytechnic in Gwarinpa is a significant step towards progress for the people of the FCT. We are grateful to President Tinubu for this timely intervention,” said Maikalangu.

A Step Forward for Education and Innovation

The new polytechnic is also expected to boost innovation and entrepreneurial education in Abuja, helping students develop skills that will enable them to succeed in various industries. In addition, it is anticipated to provide significant opportunities for young people in the region to pursue technical education without having to travel long distances.

As part of the broader vision of promoting skills development across the country, the establishment of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Polytechnic will serve as a catalyst for improving technical and vocational education in the FCT and beyond, further solidifying Nigeria’s commitment to education for all.

This approval follows the recent historic appointment of Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo, an FCT native and former two-term member of the House of Representatives, as a minister. The development is seen as a milestone in the political and educational growth of the region.