Akpabio Stresses Need for Greater Investment in Human Capital Development
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has reiterated the urgent need for increased investment in human capital development across Nigeria.
Speaking through Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, at a public hearing held by the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, Akpabio emphasized that the nation’s development depends significantly on the quality and capacity of its human resources.
The public hearing, held at the National Assembly in Abuja, focused on several bills seeking to establish specialized federal universities across the country. These include the proposed Federal University of Technology, Ilaro; Federal University of Health Sciences and Technology, Ogoja; Federal University of Geomatics, Idah; Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Keffi; Federal University of Vocational and Skill Acquisition, Arochukwu; and the Federal University of Education (Special), Bichi.
Akpabio said Nigeria must position itself to meet global standards by equipping its citizens with the knowledge and skills necessary for 21st-century challenges.
He described education as the most crucial investment a country can make, stressing that without a skilled population, meaningful national progress would remain elusive.
He stated that the proposed institutions are designed to address critical sectors such as healthcare, technology, vocational training, special education, and geomatics, which are essential to Nigeria’s sustainable development.
He added that these universities would help promote inclusiveness and serve as engines for innovation and job creation.
The Senate President cautioned that while expansion in tertiary education is necessary, it must be guided by careful planning, adequate funding, and proper governance to ensure quality and long-term sustainability.
He also warned against establishing institutions without the infrastructure and personnel required to operate effectively.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, Senator Muntari Dandutse, said the hearing was to gather stakeholder input on the bills and ensure that legislative actions align with the educational needs of the country.
He reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s educational infrastructure.
Stakeholders present at the hearing, including representatives from the education sector, civil society, and academia, commended the legislative efforts and echoed the call for increased investment in education. They stressed the importance of institutional autonomy, equitable access, and long-term planning in Nigeria’s higher education system.
Akpabio’s message reinforced the growing consensus among policymakers that human capital development must be at the forefront of Nigeria’s national agenda.
