FG Adopts TASUED in Ogun State as Federal University, Marking a Historic Milestone for Education
In a landmark decision aimed at strengthening teacher education and honoring Nigeria’s educational pioneers, the Federal Government has officially adopted the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) in Ijagun, Ogun State, as a federal institution. President Bola Tinubu approved the adoption on Friday, March 7, 2025, in a move that underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education across the nation.
The announcement was made in a statement released by the Presidency on Sunday, March 9, 2025. President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the Ogun State Government for inviting the Federal Government to take over TASUED, which is widely regarded as one of the state’s most valuable educational assets.
“It is an opportunity for the Federal Government to honour Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who began the revolutionary free education programme in Western Nigeria, and Dr. Tai Solarin, who dedicated his life to educating our children and instilling patriotic and leadership values at Mayflower School in Ikenne,” President Tinubu stated. He also acknowledged the critical role played by the Awujale of Ijebuland in preventing the university’s closure in 2012, just seven years after its establishment.
The adoption of TASUED as a federal university marks a strategic step in the Federal Government’s efforts to bolster teacher education and improve instructional standards at all levels of the educational system. With its well-developed infrastructure and robust academic programmes, TASUED’s transition into a federal institution will require minimal investment from the Federal Government.
Established by the Ogun State Government in 2005, TASUED holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s first specialised university of education. Named after Dr. Tai Solarin, a renowned activist and founder of Mayflower School in Ikenne, the institution has long been a beacon of excellence in teacher training. As a federal university, TASUED will become the first federally owned tertiary institution in the Ogun East senatorial district, a region that includes Ijebu and Remo.
The adoption of TASUED also serves as a tribute to Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Dr. Tai Solarin, both of whom hailed from the Ogun East senatorial district and made significant contributions to Nigeria’s educational landscape.
With this development, the Federal Government now oversees three universities of education in Nigeria. The other two are Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education in Owerri and Adeyemi Federal University of Education in Ondo. This expansion reflects the government’s broader strategy to prioritise teacher education as a cornerstone of national development.
The transition of TASUED to a federal university is expected to bring numerous benefits, including increased funding, enhanced academic resources, and greater opportunities for students and faculty. It also aligns with the Federal Government’s vision of ensuring equitable access to quality education across all regions of the country.
Stakeholders in the education sector have hailed the decision as a historic milestone that will further solidify Nigeria’s commitment to educational excellence and teacher development. The move is anticipated to inspire similar initiatives aimed at strengthening the nation’s educational infrastructure and fostering a culture of learning and innovation.
