Abuja, Nigeria – The House of Representatives on Tuesday passed a bill seeking to amend the Federal Polytechnic Act through its second reading. The bill, co-sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Lagos lawmaker Fuad Laguda, aims to expand the functions and administrative structure of polytechnics across Nigeria.

Expanding Polytechnic Education

Leading the debate, Laguda emphasized the growing role of polytechnic education in the country and the need for reforms to enhance its efficiency.

“The Federal Polytechnics Act was originally designed to establish institutions providing full-time courses in technology, applied science, and management. However, given the evolving educational landscape, there is a need to align with global best practices,” he stated.

The bill proposes key changes, including:

• Expanding the Governing Council to include representatives from technical institutions such as the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).
• Enhancing the scope of functions of federal polytechnics.
• Strengthening administrative structures for more effective governance.

Legislative Support and Next Steps

The bill received overwhelming support from lawmakers, with Speaker Abbas subjecting it to a voice vote, after which it was referred to the Committee on Polytechnic and Higher Technical Education for further legislative action.

If passed into law, the amendment will ensure greater efficiency in technical education, aligning Nigeria’s polytechnic system with global educational standards.