SEN. BABANGIDA’S BILL 2025 (SB 239): a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s educational framework and stimulating economic growth

By Onwe Wisdom| Pan Afric

Sen. Hussaini Babangida Uba’s (Jigawa North-West, APC) proposed legislation to transform the Jigawa College of Education, Gumel, into a full fledged Federal University of Education, Gumel, represents a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s educational framework and stimulating economic growth as well as tackling insecurity in the country. This move aligns with broader national trends and addresses critical issues within the teacher education sector.

Enhancement of Teacher Education

Colleges of Education in Nigeria have traditionally focused on producing National Certificate in Education (NCE) holders to cater to primary and secondary education needs. However, these institutions have faced challenges such as declining enrollment and perceptions of being less prestigious compared to universities. For instance, data from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) indicates a consistent shortfall in admissions to Colleges of Education, with only 2.49% of the admission quota met in 2023 . Upgrading the Jigawa College of Education to a university status is anticipated to attract more students, thereby addressing the shortage of qualified educators and elevating the institution’s academic standing.

Alignment with National Educational Reforms

The federal government’s consideration to convert Colleges of Education into Universities of Education underscores a commitment to reforming teacher education. The Minister of Education highlighted that some Colleges of Education have enrollments of less than 1,000 students, questioning their viability . Transforming these colleges into universities is seen as a strategy to revitalize the education sector and produce highly qualified teachers equipped to meet contemporary educational demands.

Economic Implications

Investing in higher education institutions has a direct correlation with economic development. Universities serve as hubs for knowledge creation, research, and innovation, all of which are essential for economic growth. The establishment of the Federal University of Education in Gumel is expected to stimulate the local economy by creating employment opportunities, attracting investments, and fostering community development. Furthermore, a well-educated workforce contributes to national productivity and competitiveness .

Addressing Teacher Shortages

Nigeria faces a significant shortage of qualified teachers, particularly at the basic education level. The 2018 National Personnel Audit reported a deficit of 277,537 teachers in public and private basic education schools . By upgrading the Jigawa College of Education to a university, the capacity to train more educators is enhanced, directly contributing to reducing this shortfall and improving the quality of education nationwide.

Call for Expedited Legislative Action

Given the potential benefits of this transformation, it is imperative for the National Assembly to expedite the passage of Senator Uba’s bill. Swift legislative action will facilitate the timely establishment of the Federal University of Education, Gumel, enabling it to commence operations and contribute to national development. Furthermore, prompt assent by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will demonstrate the administration’s commitment to educational reform and human capital development.

The proposed conversion of the Jigawa College of Education, Gumel, into a full-fledged Federal University of Education is a forward-thinking initiative that promises to enhance teacher education, address critical shortages in the education sector, and stimulate economic growth. It is a strategic move that aligns with national educational reforms and has the potential to significantly contribute to