Speaker Abbas Supports Bill For Establishment Of Fed. College of Education Okpella
By Osehobo Ofure, Benin City
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has thrown his weight behind the bill proposing the establishment of Federal College of Education Okpella in Etsako East, Edo State.
The bill was proposed by Rep. Anamero Dekeri, the member representing Etsako Federal Constituency, with others, who said the focus on technical education is non-negotiable for Nigeria’s development.
Speaking at a public hearing in Abuja on Tuesday, Speaker Abbas justified the creation of new technical colleges, citing Nigeria’s growing demand for skilled manpower to support industrial development.
He noted that the existing 238 accredited federal, state, and private colleges of education were inadequate to meet the nation’s educational and economic needs.
“Human capital is the key driver of development, and expanding teacher education is necessary to sustain Nigeria’s education system. The demand for education makes the number of existing colleges of education in Nigeria quite insignificant,” Speaker Abbas stated.
He said the proposed Federal College of Education in Okpella is strategically positioned to serve as a hub for training technically skilled personnel for major industries such as BUA Cement, Dangote Cement, and petrochemical companies.
Additionally, its proximity to Ajaokuta Iron and Steel Development Company positions it as a critical player in Nigeria’s industrial growth, said the Speaker.
“Technical skills are indispensable. Developed nations are not ahead by chance; they harness technical skills driven by SMEs. If you visit Vietnam or China, you’ll see how they manufacture phones and electronics.
“We can do the same—produce our own phones, automobiles, fabrics, and electricals. The resources are available; we just need the right institutions to actualise this potential,” he stated.
On his part, Rep. Anamero expressed optimism that once passed into law would provide Edo people and Nigerians at large with greater opportunities to acquire skills beyond what conventional institutions offer.
He also appreciated his colleagues at the National Assembly, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole and Reps. Julius Ihonvbere and Peter Akpatason for their collaborative efforts in pushing for technical education advancement in Edo State.
“The establishment of new federal colleges of education will not only improve the training of professional teachers but also foster educational development, create employment opportunities, and stimulate socio-economic growth in host communities,” he added.
