Education sector set for revival, says VP Shettima

…as University of Ibadan honours vice president with historic ambassador award

By Kunle Sanni –

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s education sector under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking at the Presidential Villa on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the management of the University of Ibadan (UI), Shettima emphasized that both public and private sector resources would be mobilized to strengthen institutions like UI, which he described as “the greatest citadel of learning in West Africa.”

The visit was led by the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, who presented Shettima with a special honour — the “UI at 75 Ambassador Plenipotentiary” award. The Vice President, who earned a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the university in 1991, is the first and only recipient of the award in the university’s history.

“This is an honour that I cherish deeply,” Shettima said. “Ibadan is certainly the greatest citadel of learning in this country and in West Africa. There was a time when the King of Saudi Arabia was treated at University College Hospital, Ibadan.”

He pledged continued support for educational reforms, noting that the Tinubu administration is already taking steps to improve access to education, particularly for underprivileged students, through initiatives such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

On the state of the economy, the Vice President expressed optimism, stating that Nigeria has “turned the corner” and is now on the path to sustained growth.

“The tax revenue of the government has steadily increased. The President is an economic guru who understands the language of commerce,” he said.

Professor Adebowale, in his remarks, praised Shettima’s contributions to public service, the banking sector, and education, describing him as “a foremost alumnus” of the university.