The Nigerian Senate conducted a public hearing on a bill aimed at converting Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) in Bauchi from a specialized university of technology to a full conventional university.
The session was organized by the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund and chaired by Senator Muntari Dandutse, representing Katsina South. The proposed amendment seeks to broaden ATBU's academic scope beyond its current focus on science, engineering, and technology, allowing it to offer programs in fields like arts, humanities, economics, and additional sciences.
Established in 1980 as a federal university of technology, ATBU remains the only one in Nigeria's North-East region and is legally restricted in its course offerings despite its evolution over the years.
Stakeholders expressed divided opinions during the hearing. Former Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda strongly supported the bill, arguing that keeping ATBU specialized is unfair to local communities as it limits access to diverse educational programs.
He referenced past efforts to introduce medicine, noting that the university has already produced over 100 medical doctors despite the restrictions.On the opposing side, Haruna Angulu, chairman of ATBU's ASUU branch, argued against the conversion, stressing the importance of increased funding to bolster its technological mandate in a rapidly advancing tech-driven world. He underscored ATBU's unique position in the North-East.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio delivered a keynote address, commending ATBU's contributions to science, technology, research, and innovation while recognizing its growth.
He called for constructive input from academics, students, administrators, and other stakeholders to shape the legislation.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Shehu Buba Umar (Bauchi South), continues to generate debate, with no immediate decision arising from the hearing. Similar conversions have previously occurred at other Nigerian institutions, such as Modibbo Adama University in Yola.
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