The 10th National Assembly (NASS) has received 32 bills proposing the establishment of new universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. However, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has cautioned against this move, citing inadequate funding for existing institutions.

Nigeria currently boasts 52 federal universities, 63 state universities, and 147 private universities, according to the National Universities Commission (NUC). Additionally, there are 40 federal polytechnics, 49 state-owned polytechnics, and 76 private polytechnics, as reported by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). The National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) states that there are 219 colleges of education in Nigeria.

The bills, led by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, include proposals for the Federal University of Technology, Kaduna, and the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Bende in Abia State, among others.

ASUU Chairman, Prof. Gbolahan Bolarin, criticized the move, describing it as misplaced priorities. He emphasized the need for lawmakers to focus on projects that positively impact their constituents instead of creating additional challenges for the nation.

Ayodamola Oluwatoyin, the Programme Director of Reform Education Nigeria, echoed concerns, stating that lawmakers appear to be prioritizing political gains over the nation's education sector, especially considering the existing challenges faced by educational institutions.

It's disheartening to witness such decisions that may not align with the current needs and challenges of the education sector. Prioritizing the improvement and sustenance of existing institutions should be a crucial focus for the betterment of education in the country.