By Sabiu Abdullahi
The House of Representatives has advanced the Federal Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship Bill to the next stage of the legislative process.
The bill, sponsored by Hon. Abdulmalik Zubairu Bungudu, representing Bungudu/Maru Federal Constituency of Zamfara State, successfully passed its second reading, garnering widespread support from lawmakers.
The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Federal Polytechnic Act, 2004, enabling the establishment of the Federal Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship in Bungudu, Zamfara State.
The institute’s primary focus would be on offering specialised courses and programmes tailored to address the technology and entrepreneurship challenges faced by Nigeria.
By equipping students with relevant skills and knowledge, the institution aims to empower them to create jobs and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth.
During the deliberations, Hon. Abdulmalik Zubairu Bungudu passionately argued for the bill, emphasising the urgent need to reposition the education system.
He highlighted the prevailing economic realities, where traditional job opportunities are limited, especially in regions like Zamfara State, where farming, a primary source of income, is severely impacted by banditry and insecurity.
Members of the House expressed unanimous agreement on the bill’s potential to transform the educational landscape. They underscored the importance of aligning education with the demands of the contemporary job market and commended Hon. Abdulmalik Zubairu Bungudu for his vision in sponsoring the bill. Speaker Hon.
Tajudeen Abbas, in his closing remarks, reiterated the House’s commitment to promoting initiatives that enhance economic opportunities for Nigerians.
He assured that bills like the Federal Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship Bill, aimed at fostering self-employment and economic growth, would receive expedited attention.
The bill has now been referred to the House Committee on Tertiary Institutions, where it will undergo further scrutiny before returning to the Committee of the Whole for final deliberations.
This development marks a significant stride towards empowering the youth, encouraging entrepreneurship, and ultimately bolstering Nigeria’s economic resilience.
