Ogun transfers TASFUED to the Federal Government
Transfer of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education to the Federal Government
On Thursday, the governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, officially handed over Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, Ijagun, to the Federal Government during the 17th convocation of the institution. This significant event marked a pivotal moment in the history of the university, as it transitioned from state to federal control.
The Memorandum of Understanding for the transfer was signed at the event by Abiodun and the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, who was represented by the Minister of State for Education, Prof Suwaiba Ahmad. This move is part of the Federal Government's broader strategy to enhance teacher education and ensure equitable access to quality education across Nigeria.
During the convocation, the wife of President Bola Tinubu, Sen Oluremi Tinubu, received an honorary doctorate degree in child education. In a gesture of support for education, she announced a N50m endowment fund aimed at supporting the overall best graduating female student for a period of ten years. The first lady, who was represented by the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, dedicated the award to the advancement of girl-child education.
In addition to the endowment, several other notable recognitions were given. Governor Abiodun and former governor of the state, Chief Olusegun Osoba, were honored with doctorate degrees in Education Management and Political Science, respectively. These awards highlighted their contributions to education and governance in the region.
The Federal Government officially announced the takeover of the university in March 2025, aiming to bolster teacher education in the country. Governor Abiodun emphasized that this move reinforces the government’s commitment to preserving legacy institutions and strengthening teacher education as a strategic pillar of national development.
He praised President Bola Tinubu for approving the takeover, stating that such a decision has helped enhance equity in the geographical spread of federal universities. He also noted that the move reinforces the government’s commitment to empowering the population through qualitative education.
Abiodun further stated that the adoption of the university by the Federal Government advances national equity by balancing the geographical spread of federal universities. He also acknowledged the contributions of distinguished champions of education in the Ijebu-Remo axis, including the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the late Chief Bisi Onabanjo.
He also recognized the invaluable role played by the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Dr Sikiru Kayode Adetona, whose intervention was instrumental in the survival of the institution during a critical moment in its history.
A Journey of Growth and Transformation
Tracing the journey of the university, Abiodun highlighted its origins as the College of Education in 1978. It transformed into a university in January 2025, with a population of 3,800 students. Over the years, the university has experienced exponential growth, offering 63 undergraduate programmes, 46 Master’s programmes, and 42 PhD programmes. With a vibrant undergraduate population of over 35,000 students, the institution continues to expand its academic offerings and reach.
Abiodun emphasized that the journey of the university demonstrates the power of clear direction and collective resolve. Institutions can rise, endure, and continue to inspire generations to dream boldly and achieve greatly.
He expressed gratitude for the favorable disposition of Tinubu, stating that TASFUED would remain a source of pride for the people of the state. At the event, he formally declared that Ogun State had released the erstwhile Tai Solarin University of Education to the Federal Government, with all authorities and responsibilities appertaining to its new status as a federal institution.
Encouragement for Graduates
Abiodun rejoiced with the graduating students, urging them to use the educational skills acquired during their studies to provide solutions to varied socio-economic challenges facing the country. Among the graduates, Gbolahan Awofala, with a CGPA of 4.92, emerged as the overall best graduating student. He received a cash reward of N2m from the state government, along with an additional N1.5m from the wife of the President.
Speaking after receiving the honorary doctorate degree, Mrs Tinubu emphasized that education remains the foundation of individual empowerment and national transformation. She expressed her lifelong commitment to promoting access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all, and was humbled by the recognition from the university.
She reiterated the government's recognition of education as a critical pillar of national development and pledged continued investment in the sector. In line with her commitment to supporting education, particularly girl-child education, she announced the N50m endowment fund for the overall best graduating female students of the university for a period of ten years.
Mrs Tinubu urged the graduates to be worthy ambassadors of the university and the country, encouraging them to join hands with other progressives to lift the nation higher.
Convocation Highlights
The acting Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof Adekunle Adeogun, shared that the 17th convocation produced a total of 4,717 graduands. Among them, 40 students obtained First Class, 1,466 made Second Class Upper Division, 2,768 earned Second Class Lower Division, 492 obtained Third Class, while 19 obtained Pass Degrees. Additionally, 384 graduates were recorded from the university’s Postgraduate School.
Adeogun encouraged the graduates to go into the world and shine, teaching with passion and carrying the name of the institution with honor wherever they go. He appreciated the decision of the federal government to take over the university, noting the significant transformation in infrastructure and other areas.
This milestone marks a new chapter for Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, as it moves forward under federal administration, poised to continue its mission of excellence in education and national development.
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