Minister Nyesom Wike of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is revitalizing Nigeria’s university education system.
Wike made these statements on Saturday in Calabar during the 37th convocation ceremony of the University of Calabar (UniCal), where he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Law.
The minister commended the President’s commitment to enhancing higher education, asserting that ongoing interventions are transforming the landscape of tertiary education nationwide.
He noted that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has alleviated financial pressures on students, ensuring that no determined individual is denied access to quality education.
Wike further stated, “The Students’ Start-up Innovation and Entrepreneurship Grant empowers youths to convert knowledge into enterprise.”
“The removal of universities from IPPIS has significantly advanced institutional autonomy.”
He pointed out that this exclusion has restored financial independence to universities, enabling them to operate more efficiently and flexibly.
Wike also highlighted that allowing TETFund research funds to remain within institutions fosters innovative and groundbreaking research.
The minister asserted that these progressive policies are positioning Nigeria’s universities to effectively meet the demands of the 21st century.
Expressing gratitude to the University of Calabar for the honorary degree, he mentioned that this recognition motivates him to continue making meaningful contributions to national progress.
“I am truly honored by this recognition. UniCal has inscribed my name in its golden records, and I accept this honor with immense responsibility,” he concluded.
