Nigerian Senate Passes Bill Establishing Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi

The Nigerian Senate has passed the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (FUTIA) Establishment Bill, paving the way for the institution in Akwa Ibom State to receive full legislative backing.

The bill was passed on Thursday, October 15, 2026, as part of the National Assembly’s legislative process to establish a legal framework for the university, which was established by the Federal Government in June 2021 under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Reacting to the development, FUTIA Vice-Chancellor, Professor Leo Daniel, described the Senate’s passage of the bill as “the best gift of the year” to the institution.

He explained that the legislation would provide the university with the necessary administrative, operational, legal, legislative and statutory backing to fulfil its mandate of advancing technology-driven education, research, innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria.

Speaking on behalf of the Governing Council, management, staff and students, Professor Daniel expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for establishing the university and commended the leadership of the National Assembly, including the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, for their roles in facilitating the legislative framework.

The Vice-Chancellor particularly acknowledged Senator Ekong Sampson, who represents Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District and chairs the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, for sponsoring the bill.

He also recognised the contributions of Senator Udoma Udo Udoma and other stakeholders who supported the institution's establishment.

Professor Daniel further commended individuals and groups that submitted memoranda in support of the bill during the public hearing, as well as the university’s host communities for their support.

The Vice-Chancellor, a professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics, also praised the Senate for its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s educational system and expressed appreciation for the legislative process that culminated in the bill’s passage.

The passage of the FUTIA Establishment Bill 2024 concludes the mandatory legislative processes at the National Assembly, following the university’s establishment by the Federal Government in June 2021.

The bill is expected to be transmitted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for presidential assent, the final step required to complete the legislative process.