FG Begins Final Steps to Upgrade YABATECH to a University of Technology and Vocational Studies

The Federal Government has commenced the final review of recommendations for the upgrade of Yaba College of Technology to the University of Technology and Vocational Studies. This follows the submission of a transition report by the committee assigned to outline the modalities for the institution’s full conversion.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, made this known during the 37th Convocation Ceremony of YABATECH on Thursday. The president had earlier approved the institution’s conversion in February, a decision announced by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during his working visit on February 14, 2025.

Delivering his address, the president said the transformation of YABATECH—originally established as Yaba Technical Institute in 1947—aims to strengthen Nigeria’s technical education system by merging practical vocational training with advanced research. He noted that this transition is a strategic investment in innovation, economic growth, and national development.

Tinubu stated, “The Federal Government has approved the upgrading of YabaTech to Yaba Technical and Vocational University. The committee responsible for ensuring a smooth transition has submitted its report, and the recommendations are currently under review.”

He emphasized that the government continues to prioritize Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Medical Sciences, and vocational education as critical pillars for equipping Nigerian youths with globally relevant skills. According to him, the Ministry of Education is expanding access to vocational training, digital literacy programs, and industry-relevant skill development.

The president highlighted that over 960,000 trainees have so far enrolled in Vocational Enterprise Institutes across more than 25 specialized technical trades nationwide. He added that new digital capacity-building initiatives—such as coding and cybersecurity bootcamps, data analytics training, digital marketing programs, e-learning platforms, and innovation hubs—are being implemented to prepare graduates for opportunities in Nigeria’s fast-growing digital economy.

Tinubu urged graduating students to embrace their roles as contributors to nation-building and called on the private sector to support research, innovation, and enterprise development within tertiary institutions. “Nation building is not the responsibility of government alone; it is a shared duty,” he said.

Speaking at the event, the Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, described the institution’s transition as a historic milestone that affirms its 78-year legacy as Nigeria’s flagship technical and vocational institution. He expressed optimism that the new university status would unlock greater opportunities in research, innovation, and national economic development.

According to the rector, “This is the most significant recognition of our 78 years of excellence. It is clear evidence that YABATECH is prepared to drive Nigeria’s future through technology, technical competence, and vocational innovation.”

He also praised President Tinubu for granting the approval and acknowledged the support of the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, for their commitment to strengthening the nation’s technical education framework.

Dr. Abdul further announced that, starting this year, YABATECH will hold its convocation ceremony annually, with certificates issued immediately to graduates to improve administrative efficiency.

A total of 8,654 students graduated from the institution for the 2023/2024 academic session. The breakdown includes 291 Distinctions, 2,434 Upper Credits, 4,403 Lower Credits, and 1,526 Pass grades.

Addressing the new graduates, the rector encouraged them to pursue entrepreneurship and innovation, saying the institution had equipped them with both academic knowledge and hands-on technical skills.

“You are leaving here not just as job seekers but as job creators. That is the YABATECH promise,” he said.