Tinubu Unveils ₦110 Billion Boost For 18 Universities To Revolutionize Medical Training

According to Ireporter Online, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced that 18 Nigerian universities, including the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), have been selected to benefit from a Federal Government intervention fund of ₦110 billion aimed at enhancing medical training infrastructure across the country.

The initiative, the President noted, is part of his administration’s broader effort to expand the nation’s capacity for producing qualified healthcare professionals and strengthening Nigeria’s medical education system.

Speaking at the 40th Convocation Ceremony of the University of Ilorin, held in Kwara State, President Tinubu—represented by the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Professor Temidayo Oladiji—reiterated his administration’s commitment to maintaining stability in the academic sector. He appealed to unions within tertiary institutions to continue embracing dialogue as a means of resolving disputes rather than resorting to industrial actions.

“I am confident that sustained dialogue and cooperation will help prevent future disruptions in our academic calendar,” the President said, emphasizing that the Federal Government has already paid earned allowances and part of the previously withheld salaries of academic and non-academic staff.

He further revealed that a special loan scheme has been introduced for tertiary institution workers to help them cope with current economic challenges, describing it as an empowerment initiative designed to support, not burden, the workforce.

President Tinubu also explained that the government’s decision to suspend the creation of new federal tertiary institutions was aimed at consolidating and strengthening existing ones. “We are prioritizing quality over quantity by channeling adequate resources into already established institutions to enhance their capacity and impact,” he stated.

In a major development, the President disclosed that the University of Ilorin has been chosen to host one of the National Universities Commission’s (NUC) Digital Innovation Hubs. The initiative, he said, will serve as a catalyst for research, digital skills acquisition, and enterprise incubation—positioning Ilorin as a leading center for innovation in Nigeria’s knowledge-driven economy.

While acknowledging the economic difficulties currently faced by Nigerians, President Tinubu expressed optimism that the ongoing reforms would lead to a more resilient and inclusive national economy. He called for continued patience and understanding from citizens, assuring that the current challenges are temporary and will pave the way for a stronger economic foundation.

He also urged state governments, local authorities, private organizations, and alumni associations to partner with the Federal Government in improving the education sector. “Education is too important to be left to government alone. The active participation of all stakeholders is crucial to building a prosperous, knowledge-based nation,” he concluded.