NIGERIA: Federal Government Adopts TASUED As Nigeria’s Newest Federal University

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The Federal Government has officially adopted the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, Ogun State, as a Federal University, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.

The announcement was made in a State House press release on Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy.

Established in 2005 by the Ogun State Government, TASUED is Nigeria’s first specialized university of education, named after the late Dr. Tai Solarin, a prominent educationist and activist.

The transition to federal ownership means TASUED becomes the first federally owned tertiary institution in Ogun East Senatorial District.

Given its existing infrastructure and academic excellence, the Federal Government noted that the transition requires minimal investment.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the adoption on Friday and expressed gratitude to the Ogun State Government for facilitating the takeover.

He emphasized that the move honors Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who pioneered free education in Western Nigeria, and Dr. Tai Solarin, who dedicated his life to education and leadership development at Mayflower School, Ikenne.

The Awujale of Ijebuland was also acknowledged for his role in preventing the university’s closure in 2012.

President Tinubu highlighted that transforming TASUED into a Federal University of Education aligns with the government’s strategy to strengthen teacher education and improve instructional quality nationwide.

With TASUED’s new status, Nigeria now has seven federally owned education universities, including Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri

Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, Federal University of Education, Kano

Federal University of Education, Zaria

Federal University of Education, Pankshin, Plateau State, and Federal University of Education, Kontagora, Niger State.

The transition is expected to bring more federal funding, expanded academic programs, and greater opportunities for students and educators in Ogun State and beyond.