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The Senator representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District, Aniekan Bassey, has called on the Federal Ministry of Education to prioritise the release of the long-overdue take-off grant for the University of Uyo and provide adequate funding for the institution in the 2025 budget.
Bassey also advocated for sufficient funding for the newly established Federal College of Education, Ididep, in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The senator made these appeals in a statement released by his media unit in Uyo on Wednesday, following the Senate Committee on Education’s (Basic and Secondary) budget defence session.
The take-off grant for UNIUYO has remained unpaid since the institution was established 34 years ago, raising concerns among stakeholders who have repeatedly urged the federal government to address the issue.
Similarly, the Federal College of Education in Ididep has yet to receive adequate funding to facilitate the smooth commencement of academic activities.
During the budget defence session, Bassey highlighted the challenges facing UNIUYO due to the lack of take-off grants and other funding issues.
He urged the Ministry of Education to prioritise disbursing these funds in the 2025 budget.
“The University of Uyo has, for years, struggled with inadequate funding despite its role in providing quality education in the South-South region. I urge the ministry to prioritize the disbursement of the UNIUYO take-off grant in the 2025 budget.
“Similarly, the Federal College of Education, Ididep, cannot thrive without the necessary federal government grants to assist in setting up the infrastructure and systems required to function effectively,” Bassey said.
The Senator, who serves as Deputy Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture Production Services and Rural Development, emphasised that adequate funding would not only support educational development but also significantly contribute to the socio-economic progress of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria as a whole.
He cautioned that improper funding of these institutions could hinder their growth, depriving students and staff of conducive learning and working environments.
Bassey also tasked the Senate Committee on Education, led by Lawal Adamu Usman, to engage the Federal Ministry of Education on the release of the take-off grants and proper funding for both UNIUYO and the Federal College of Education, Ididep, during further budget discussions.
