…urge constituents to share their need to be included in 2025 budget
By Gloria Ikibah
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Reps. Tajudeen Abbas, has announced the establishment of four major institutions in Zaria; a Federal College of Education, a state-of-the-art College of Health Sciences, a National Open University campus, and a College of Legal Studies.
Speaker Abbas who disclosed this during a meeting with the Zaria Educational and Development Association (ZEDA) on Saturday, emphasised the transformative impact these institutions would have on Zaria’s educational landscape and the broader region.
Abbas highlighted the ongoing renovations of 116 primary and secondary schools in Zaria, with plans for further upgrades, and described the initiative as a comprehensive effort to elevate the city’s educational standing.
“It is humbling to witness the progress in Zaria’s education sector,” he said, commending the turnout at the ZEDA meeting and thanking members for their support.
On the 2025 budget, Abbas urged his constituents to share their needs, according to him, “This is the time to let us know what you require. We are ready to assist,” he stated.
Following the upgrade of the existing college of education into a university, a new Federal College of Education will be established.
The College of Health Sciences will address the region’s demand for healthcare professionals like nurses and midwives.
While the National Open University Campus is designed for civil servants and others seeking flexible learning options.
And the College of Legal Studies will add depth to Zaria’s educational offerings.
“Zaria is known for education, not commerce or industry. Strengthening our educational infrastructure is essential,” Abbas noted.
In addition to ededucation, SpeakerAbbas mentioned numerous other ongoing projects funded through the 2023 supplementary and 2024 budgets, these include hospitals, road networks, bridges, and markets.
While inspecting projects in Zaria, Abbas said: “What I’ve seen is commendable. Contractors have performed well. Although we’ve only inspected about 10% of projects, the progress is impressive.”
One notable project is the reconstruction of a bridge in Abba village, destroyed in 2014 by insurgents. Abbas confirmed it would be completed within six months to a year, with full funding already provided under the 2024 budget.
The groundbreaking ceremonies for the four new institutions are set for Sunday, December 15, 2024, and this marks a significant milestone for Zaria, further establishing it as a center of learning in Nigeria.
Abbas therefore expressed confidence that the projects, expected to be completed in 16-18 months, would transform Zaria’s reputation.
“By the time these projects are completed, Zaria will be the undisputed hub of education in the country,” Abbas declared.