Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his transformative interventions in higher education, stating that the Renewed Hope Agenda is reshaping Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
Speaking at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) after being conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Law during the institution’s 50th anniversary and 37th convocation ceremony, Wike highlighted the administration’s commitment to ensuring accessible and quality education for all.
Key Interventions in the Education Sector
Wike lauded the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which provides financial relief for students, ensuring that economic barriers do not hinder access to education.
According to a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike outlined other key educational reforms under Tinubu, including:
The Student Start-up Innovation and Entrepreneurship Grant, designed to empower young minds to transform ideas into impactful enterprises.
The removal of universities from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), restoring financial autonomy to institutions for greater efficiency.
The domiciliation of TETFund Research Funds within universities, strengthening research capabilities and fostering innovation.
“These bold and forward-thinking policies are positioning Nigeria’s university system to meet the demands of the 21st century,” Wike stated.
A Commitment to National Development
Expressing gratitude to UNICAL for the honorary degree, the FCT Minister described the recognition as a call to deepen his contributions to education, governance, and national development.
“As I proudly accept this honorary doctorate, I do so with renewed vigor to contribute even more meaningfully to the advancement of education, good governance, and national progress,” Wike said.
He further pledged to uphold excellence and service, serving as an inspiration to future generations.
