I extend my sincere congratulations on the Federal Government’s decision to take over Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), the first university of its kind in Nigeria, the second in Africa, and the eighth globally at the time of its founding by our administration. This move by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu underscores the significance of the institution and validates the vision behind its establishment two decades ago.
However, while this development secures TASUED’s future, it also raises important concerns for Ogun State. The takeover could be perceived as an indictment on the state's capacity to sustain its own educational institutions, especially now that Ogun’s budget exceeds one trillion naira. It is worth asking—what portion of this budget is dedicated to education?
TASUED was established not only to expand educational opportunities but also to provide employment for Ogun State citizens. With federal control, key benefits such as employment for indigenes and state-specific admission quotas may be reduced, as appointments and admissions will now follow federal guidelines.
Your Excellency, while we are grateful to the President for stepping in, this moment should serve as a wake-up call. The resources freed from TASUED’s budget should now be redirected to strengthen other state institutions like:
- The four ICT polytechnics in Igbesa, Ado-Odo/Ota, Abraham Adesanya (Ijebu Igbo), Gateway ICT (Sapade), and Dauda Adegbenro (Itori).
- The Gateway Industrial and Petro-Gas Institute in Oni, Ogun Waterside.
These institutions have also faced neglect and require urgent intervention. If the state is unable to sustain them, perhaps their integration into the federal system—like TASUED—should be considered to prevent their decline.
As a proud son of Ogun East, I urge you to ensure that institutions like the Gateway Industrial and Petro-Gas Institute and Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic do not fade into obscurity under your leadership. Your administration has the opportunity to leave a lasting educational legacy, one that prioritizes sustainability and excellence.
May your tenure be guided by wisdom and a commitment to the lasting development of Ogun State.
**Senator Otunba Engr. Gbenga Daniel, FNSE, FAEng.**
Senator, Ogun East Senatorial District
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