The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, on Monday assured that the legislative body is ready to introduce legislation to enhance digital and technical education across the country.
He made this statement at the National Assembly Complex during a public hearing organised by the House Committee on Federal Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education.
The hearing focused on bills to establish the Federal Artificial Intelligence Institute, Aliade, Benue State; the Federal College of Science and Technology, Askira-Uba, Borno State; and the National Institute for Technical and Vocational Education, Wamba, Nasarawa State.
Represented by Auwalu Gwalabe, the member for Katagum Federal Constituency, Bauchi State, Abbas emphasised the importance of collaboration between the government and stakeholders to elevate digital learning and technical education in Nigeria.
He highlighted the growing recognition of science, technical, and vocational education as crucial to national development.
“We hope that the establishment of these proposed institutions will provide access to quality technical education, address skills gaps by equipping graduates with employable skills, promote innovation and entrepreneurship, and support the government’s effort to diversify the economy,” he said.
“These institutions will serve as beacons of excellence – providing quality education that meets international standards while catering to local needs. Today’s hearing aligns with our legislative agenda to enhance Nigeria’s educational framework.
“In an increasingly competitive global environment, it is vital for our youth to possess relevant skills and knowledge,” Abbas added.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Committee and member for Surulere 1 Federal Constituency, Lagos State, Fuad Laguda, stated that the bills aim to improve Nigeria’s educational development and foster sustainable human capital necessary for a self-reliant society.
He stressed the importance of applying Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to drive economic growth. Laguda further noted that passing these bills into law would empower the workforce technologically, reduce unemployment, and promote wealth creation.
“As you may know, the primary objective of vocational, entrepreneurial, and technical skills acquisition institutions in Nigeria is to train technicians and middle-level personnel who will act as catalysts for rapid industrialisation and real sector development,” he stated.