Address by Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education at the Strategic Interactive Engagement for Heads of Beneficiary Institutions held at the TETFUND auditorium, Abuja

Distinguished Heads of Institutions, Esteemed TETFUND Officials, Colleagues from the Federal Ministry of Education, Honoured Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is with great honour and pleasure that I address you all at this Strategic Interactive Engagement organized for the heads of our beneficiary institutions. This gathering serves as a crucial forum for dialogue, reflection, and partnership as we collectively seek to strengthen Nigeria’s tertiary education system and ensure that it meets the evolving demands of our nation.

The work of TETFUND over the years has been transformative, as it has provided vital support to our universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. The resources channeled through TETFUND have facilitated improved infrastructure, enhanced research capabilities, and expanded learning opportunities across our tertiary institutions. However, in the face of new challenges and heightened expectations, we must continuously assess and innovate to ensure that the impact of these investments is maximized.

Today’s engagement is a testament to the commitment of all stakeholders our institutions, TETFUND, and the Ministry of Education to work together towards sustainable, high-quality education. As we engage in discussions today, I encourage each of us to think not only of the immediate needs of our institutions but of the long-term goals that can ensure Nigerian education remains relevant and competitive on a global scale.

Allow me to emphasize a few key areas that will guide our discussions:

Efficient use of funds and resources remains paramount. TETFUND’s mandate is one of trust, and as beneficiaries, we must uphold that trust by ensuring that funds are used judiciously and transparently. The Ministry is committed to supporting your institutions in setting up and strengthening mechanisms for accountability, reporting, and results-driven planning.

 Enhancing Research and Innovation:

For Nigeria to thrive in the knowledge economy, our institutions must be at the forefront of research and innovation. I encourage each institution to think creatively about how to leverage TETFUND resources not only for infrastructural development but also for fostering research that addresses national challenges, drives economic growth, and contributes to global knowledge.

Investment in infrastructure alone cannot elevate our education

sector. Building capacity within our academic staff and administrative teams is essential to creating institutions that

produce well-rounded, skilled graduates. TETFUND’s role in

supporting capacity development initiatives should be fully

utilized, and I urge each of you to prioritize professional

development programs that will benefit both educators and students.

No institution can achieve its goals in isolation. We must embrace collaboration across institutions and with industry partners. Strategic partnerships can open doors to new funding sources, create internship opportunities, and provide students with the real-world skills they need to succeed after graduation.

It is our duty to ensure that no qualified Nigerian is denied access to quality tertiary education. As you utilize TETFUND resources, I encourage you to develop strategies that support inclusivity, including programs for students from marginalized communities, improved accessibility on campuses, and support systems for students who may otherwise struggle to complete their education.

In closing, I would like to remind us all that the future of Nigeria’s educational system is in our hands. As leaders, we bear the responsibility of ensuring that our institutions remain beacons of learning, innovation, and integrity. Today’s interactive engagement is an opportunity to build on the strides we have made, to reflect on areas needing improvement, and to chart a way forward that will strengthen not only our individual institutions but the entire Nigerian educational system.

I look forward to productive discussions today and to the strategic initiatives that will emerge from this gathering. Together, we can build a future where Nigerian education stands tall on the global stage and contributes meaningfully to our country’s progress and prosperity.

Thank you for your commitment, your vision, and your dedication to the cause of education. I wish you all a successful and engaging session.