Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria — The federal government of Nigeria has approved a combined start-up grant of ₦4 billion (about $2.6 million) for two newly established higher education institutions as part of efforts to expand access to tertiary education and strengthen scientific research in the country.
Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the funding on Thursday, March 12, 2026, during the inauguration ceremony for key officials appointed to lead the new institutions. The event took place in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, according to a report broadcast by Arise News, a Nigerian television network.
Under the approval, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic in Abuja, located in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, will receive ₦2 billion (about $1.3 million) as a take-off grant. The Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, located in Epe in Lagos State in southwestern Nigeria, will also receive ₦2 billion (about $1.3 million) to support its early operations.
Okay News reports that the grants are intended to help the institutions establish basic administrative and academic systems as they begin activities and prepare to admit students.
During the ceremony, the education minister formally presented appointment letters to several newly appointed leaders. Among them was Professor Nosiru Onibon, who will serve as the pioneer Rector of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic in Abuja. Professor Adeola Oshikoya was appointed Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, while Dr Angela Ajala assumed office as Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), Nigeria’s federal regulatory agency responsible for overseeing teacher education institutions.
Alausa said the creation of the new institutions reflects the administration’s broader plan to strengthen the country’s education system and expand opportunities for students seeking higher education.
“Every child in this country deserves access to the highest quality education comparable to global standards. The appointees were carefully selected based on their record of service and achievements across Nigeria’s educational institutions.
“To whom much is given, much is expected. You have been chosen from millions of Nigerians to serve your country, and this recognition extends to your families as well,” the minister said.
He explained that the new polytechnic and university were strategically located to take advantage of the economic activities and human resources available in their respective regions.
According to the minister, the institutions are expected to focus on fields that support national development, including technological innovation, renewable energy research, climate change response, disaster risk management, and other science-driven areas that can contribute to economic growth.
Alausa also highlighted the importance of strengthening teacher education in Nigeria while congratulating Ajala on her appointment to lead the National Commission for Colleges of Education.
He stressed that improving teacher training remains central to the long-term development of the country’s education system.
The new funding and leadership appointments come as the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria’s head of state since May 2023, continues efforts to expand higher education infrastructure and produce skilled professionals capable of supporting the country’s development goals.
