Senate President Godswill Akpabio has acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s assent to three new education bills, establishing federal institutions in Abia and Imo states, as part of efforts to expand access to higher education and improve health-related training in the South-East.

The new institutions include the Federal College of Education, Bende; the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Item, Bende—both in Abia State; and the Federal University, Okigwe in Imo State.

Akpabio’s remarks were contained in a statement issued Wednesday by his media adviser, Eseme Eyiboh.

He described the assent as a meaningful step towards addressing regional educational gaps and advancing healthcare delivery in the South-East.
The Senate President also acknowledged the roles played by Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, who sponsored two of the bills, and other lawmakers, including Senator Patrick Ndubueze, the lead sponsor of the Okigwe University bill, as well as Senators Onyekachi Nwebonyi and Osita Ngwu. He credited them for their legislative advocacy and commitment to community development.

He noted that the institutions will enhance research and learning while responding to the educational and medical training needs of the region.
According to Akpabio, these developments contribute to broader national efforts to promote unity and inclusion.

Akpabio also framed the President’s approval as part of a broader agenda of national reconciliation and development, adding that the institutions could help reduce lingering sentiments of exclusion and marginalisation in the region.

He called on residents of the South-East to align with the federal government’s policies and programmes, stating that sustained cooperation would position the region for further benefits under the current administration.

Akpabio said, “The significant support of leaders and lawmakers in ensuring the passage of these very important bills establishing these institutions is noteworthy and commendable.

“I call on the great Ndigbo people to continue to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration and position for strategic and progressive alliance with President Bola Tinubu.”

The statement added that the Senate would continue to support initiatives aimed at promoting equitable development across the country.