‘238 Is Inadequate’ — Tajudeen Abbas Supports Bill to Establish 10 More Colleges of Education
Abbas Tajudeen, the speaker of the house of representatives, stated that the current number of colleges of education in Nigeria is insufficient to cater to the country’s expanding educational needs.
Speaking at a public hearing in Abuja on Tuesday, Abbas expressed his support for a bill proposing the establishment of 10 additional federal colleges of education.
According to the federal database, Nigeria presently has a total of 238 accredited colleges of education, including federal, state, and private institutions.
Abbas argued that this number is inadequate for a country with a population of approximately 230 million people, of which over 60 per cent are under the age of 24.
Describing the bills aimed at creating 10 more colleges as “relevant, appropriate, and justified,” the speaker emphasized the importance of human capital as a fundamental driver of development, stressing that expanding teacher education is essential for maintaining Nigeria’s education system.
“The demand for education makes the number of existing colleges of education in Nigeria quite insignificant,” he stated.
He further explained that establishing new federal colleges of education would not only enhance the training of professional teachers but also contribute to educational development, generate employment opportunities, and promote socio-economic progress in the host communities.
Adamu Tanko, chairman of the house committee on colleges of education, underscored that education is the foundation of national development and that expanding teacher training institutions is vital to cultivating a skilled workforce.
Julius Ihonvbere, the house leader and a sponsor of the bills, expressed concern over the shortage of qualified teachers in the country, emphasizing the need for additional institutions to tackle this challenge.
Another lawmaker, Anamero Dekeri, advocated for a stronger emphasis on technical education.
He stated that his proposed Federal College of Education (Technical) in Edo state would harness the region’s potential.
