Federal Ministry of Education Clarifies Timeline on Epe University Approval

The Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that the presidential approval for the establishment of the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, Lagos State, was granted before the Federal Executive Council (FEC) imposed a seven-year moratorium on the creation of new federal tertiary institutions.

According to a statement issued by the ministry on Sunday, the clarification became necessary following public speculation and media reports suggesting that the new university’s establishment violated the government’s recent directive halting the proliferation of new federal institutions. The ministry emphasized that the approval followed due process and had been under consideration well before the moratorium was announced.

The statement further explained that the ministry received the presidential assent after the necessary feasibility studies, consultations, and cost implications had been reviewed. “It is important to note that the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, was conceived and approved within the context of national priorities to expand access to specialized science and technology education,” the ministry said.

Presidential Approval for the Establishment of the Federal University of Science and Technology

Presidential approval for the establishment of the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, signifies a strategic step toward addressing Nigeria’s growing demand for innovation-driven education and research capacity. The Federal Ministry of Education reaffirmed that the institution is designed to serve as a catalyst for technological advancement and industrial growth, aligning with the federal government’s broader goals under its National Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Policy.

The ministry stated that the university’s creation aims to bridge the gap between research output and national development by focusing on applied sciences, engineering, and technology entrepreneurship. “This is not just another conventional university,” the statement noted. “It represents a forward-looking model that prioritizes practical learning, innovation incubation, and collaboration with industries.”

Furthermore, the ministry assured stakeholders that the new institution would be implemented in phases to ensure sustainable funding and infrastructural development. The government, it added, remains committed to strengthening existing universities while responsibly expanding access where strategic needs exist.

Federal Ministry of Education Reaffirms Commitment to Education Reforms

The Federal Ministry of Education reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and sustainable reforms in the education sector. It maintained that while the Federal Executive Council’s moratorium remains in force, exceptions like the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, are based on prior presidential approvals that meet established criteria.

The ministry also highlighted that the moratorium was introduced to curb unplanned expansion and ensure that existing institutions receive adequate funding and support. However, the Epe project, having been approved before the moratorium, falls outside the suspension window.

In conclusion, the ministry called on the public and stakeholders to support the university’s development and to focus on the opportunities it presents for Nigeria’s youth, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and innovation sectors crucial for the nation’s competitiveness in the 21st century.