Philip Nyam 
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas has said the establishment of entrepreneur institutes and skills acquisition colleges will fastrack national development in Nigeria.
The Speaker made this known on Wednesday while declaring open a public hearing organised by the House Committee on Federal Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education on the establishment of the National Polytechnic Commission, Federal Vocational and Entrepreneurship Institute, Okota/Oshodi, Lagos and the Federal Vocational and Skills Acquisition College, Yankaba, Kano.
He said “These initiatives are not merely legislative proposals; they represent a commitment to our nation’s future a future where education serves as a cornerstone for economic growth, social mobility, and national development.
“The establishment of these institutions will ensure that quality education in science, skills, arts, technical and vocational training becomes accessible to all Nigerians.
“In recent years, there has been an increasing recognition of the critical role that technical and vocational education plays in national development.
“It is no longer sufficient for our educational institutions to merely impart theoretical knowledge; we must also equip our youth with practical skills that will enable them to thrive in an ever-evolving job market.
“The establishment of these institutions is a testament to our resolve to bridge the gap between education and employment.
“The National Polytechnic Commission will serve as a regulatory body that ensures standards are upheld across polytechnics nationwide.
“This initiative aims not only to enhance the quality of education but also to promote uniformity and excellence within our polytechnic system.
“By doing so, we can ensure that graduates from these institutions are well-prepared to meet industry demands and contribute meaningfully to our economy.
“Furthermore, the creation of the Federal Vocational and Entrepreneurship Institute in Lagos state will provide essential training opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and _ skilled workers alike.
“It is envisaged that this institute will focus on equipping individuals with both technical skills and entrepreneurial acumen—an essential combination for fostering innovation and economic growth.
“Similarly, the Federal Vocational and Skills Acquisition College in Yankaba, Kano State will cater specifically to those seeking vocational training tailored to local industries’ needs.
“By aligning educational programmes with regional economic activities, we can empower communities through skill development while simultaneously addressing unemployment challenges.
In his welcome address, the chairman of the committee, Faud Laguda noted that each of the bills is tailored towards enacting laws that will bring about the much needed improvement in the socio-economic development of the country, and invariably promoting our quest for sustainable human capital development required for a self-reliant society.
He said “The objectives of establishing vocational, entrepreneurship and skills acquisition Institutions in Nigeria is to train technicians and middle-level personnel that would serve as Catalyst for rapid industrialization and the development of the real sector of the economy.
“There is therefore, the need for all stakeholders here present to be dedicated and committed in the effort of improving and developing our educational sector by being objective, constructive in our inputs and opinions on all the contending issues on the bills”, he stated.
