By Our National Assembly Correspondent
ABUJA, The Nigerian Senate, on Monday, held a highly engaging and well-attended public hearing on the Bill seeking to establish the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (FUTIA), drawing wide interest from stakeholders across the education and technology sectors.
Leading the deliberations at the National Assembly Complex, Senator Ekong Sampson, sponsor of the Bill and representative of Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, passionately articulated the transformative significance of the proposed institution. According to the lawmaker, the university represents a strategic investment in Nigeria’s technological future and a crucial step toward deepening access to quality education for national development.
Describing the initiative as “a watershed moment” in the country’s educational advancement, Senator Sampson emphasized that FUTIA is designed to offer cutting-edge programmes such as Aerospace Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Software Engineering. He argued that the institution, once operational, would serve as a beacon of innovation, driving home-grown technological progress and positioning Nigeria as a knowledge-driven economy.
“The establishment of FUTIA is not just about education,” Senator Sampson declared. “It is about shaping the future of our nation, equipping our youths with competitive skills, and unlocking the economic potential of Ikot Abasi and its environs.”
In strong support of the Bill, a cross-section of stakeholders presented memoranda and position papers reinforcing the university’s relevance. These included the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Leo Daniel; Chairman of the Governing Council, Rt. Hon. Emaeyak Ukpong; Barr. Edidiong Ubeh; and representatives of the Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin, and Eastern Obolo Development Association (IMEDA).
The public hearing marked a major step forward in the legislative process for FUTIA, with senators, academics, and community leaders aligning on the vision to elevate the technological landscape through targeted educational investment.
The Bill is expected to proceed to the next legislative stage following the inputs and recommendations gathered during the hearing.
