By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – Federal lawmaker representing Ondo North in the Senate, Senator Olajide Ipinsagba has expressed joy as the Senate passed the Federal Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Career Bill, paving the way for the establishment of a specialized ICT university in Ondo state.
Speaking to journalists in his office shortly after the legislative victory, Sen Ipinsagba who sponsored the bill, expressed deep gratitude and joy over the development saying: “It is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes, especially for the people of Ikare-Akoko, Akoko land, and the Ondo North Senatorial District. The whole state is elated.
With the bill now set to proceed to the House of Representatives for concurrence before moving to the President for final assent, the lawmaker expressed confident that the process will be seamless. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown strong support for educational expansion. He’s encouraging more universities, especially specialized ones, to be established. I believe this will pass through the normal legislative channels without issues,” he noted.
Responding to concerns about land availability in Ondo State for the proposed institution, the senator dismissed doubts, asserting that thorough groundwork had been completed prior to the bill’s introduction. “Ikare has a vast expanse of land. Ondo State can accommodate any university. We considered all infrastructural needs before pushing this bill.”
The new institution will stand out as one of the first specialized universities in Information and Communication Technology in the region, if not the entire West African subcontinent. “This is not a regular university. Its uniqueness lies in its focus and the value it will bring to technological education in Nigeria,” he added.
Addressing accessibility concerns, particularly for underprivileged students, the senator emphasized inclusivity. “Admission will follow standard procedures. It doesn’t matter if you’re rich or poor. Everyone has the right to develop their skills through this institution, just like any other university in the country.”
Precise Post recalls that when this Bill gets concurrence in the House of Representatives and the President eventually assents to it, Ondo State will becoming a hub for technological advancement and education in Nigeria.
