Reps Seek Urgent Upgrade of UI, ABU, UNN, Other First-Generation Universities

The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to take immediate steps to restore the lost glory of Nigeria’s first-generation universities — including Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria; the University of Ibadan (UI); and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Aderemi Oseni (APC, Oyo) during Wednesday’s plenary session, titled “Need to Upgrade First-Generation Universities and Investigate the Quality and Standards of TETFUND Projects Across Federal Universities in Nigeria.”

Oseni described the institutions as the pride of Nigeria’s education system in the 1960s and 1970s, attracting international scholars and recognition for their high academic standards and research output. He lamented, however, that years of neglect, poor funding, and infrastructural decay had eroded their reputation and global ranking.

The lawmaker expressed dismay over the deplorable state of lecture halls, hostels, and laboratories, noting that even the once-bustling university zoos — formerly major attractions — have been abandoned. He also raised alarm over the poor quality of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) intervention projects, claiming that several newly completed buildings are already deteriorating.

“Some of the buildings put up in the 1960s remain stronger than those recently executed under TETFUND,” Oseni said, urging the government to prioritize quality and transparency in its educational investments.

Following extensive deliberation, the House resolved to conduct a comprehensive probe into all TETFUND projects across federal universities to ensure accountability and value for public funds.

Lawmakers also called on the Federal Ministries of Education and Finance, the National Universities Commission (NUC), TETFUND, and development partners to collaborate on strategies to rehabilitate and modernize the country’s first-generation universities.

Additionally, the House mandated its Committees on University Education and TETFUND to oversee the investigation, verify compliance with construction standards, and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.

Nigeria’s first-generation universities — ABU, UI, and UNN among others — were once the benchmark for academic excellence in Africa. Established shortly after independence, they played crucial roles in producing intellectuals, technocrats, and leaders who shaped the nation’s early development.

However, the continuous decline in funding, infrastructure, and research capacity has weakened their standing both locally and internationally, prompting the lawmakers’ renewed call for urgent intervention.