President Bola Tinubu has approved the federal takeover of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) in Ijagun, Ogun State, making it the first federally owned tertiary institution in the Ogun East senatorial district. The announcement was made in a statement issued on Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
Established by the Ogun State Government in 2005, TASUED is Nigeria’s first specialized university of education. President Tinubu expressed appreciation to the Ogun State Government for inviting the Federal Government to assume control of the institution, describing the move as a tribute to the legacies of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Dr. Tai Solarin.
“This decision provides an opportunity for the Federal Government to honor Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who pioneered the revolutionary free education program in Western Nigeria, and Dr. Tai Solarin, who dedicated his life to educating children and instilling values of patriotism and leadership at Mayflower School in Ikenne,” Tinubu stated.
The President also recognized the efforts of the Awujale of Ijebuland in preventing the university’s closure in 2012, just seven years after its establishment. The transition to federal ownership is expected to require minimal investment, as TASUED already boasts well-developed infrastructure and robust academic programs. This aligns with the Federal Government’s broader strategy to enhance teacher education and improve instructional quality across the country.
With this adoption, the Federal Government now oversees three universities of education: TASUED, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education in Owerri, and Adeyemi Federal University of Education in Ondo. The decision represents a significant milestone for Ogun State’s educational sector and underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing higher education while honoring the contributions of regional icons.
The statement concluded by highlighting the importance of this development in strengthening Nigeria’s educational framework and ensuring the continued growth of quality teacher training institutions nationwide.
