The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has called for greater investment in research and innovation to address Nigeria’s housing deficit, urging architects, researchers, and tertiary institutions to develop practical solutions that can make housing more affordable and sustainable.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Female Architects of Nigeria (FAN) to the Fund’s headquarters in Abuja, TETFund Executive Secretary Arc. Sonny Echono said Nigeria’s housing challenges require research-driven approaches capable of lowering construction costs, improving building technologies, and reducing dependence on imported construction materials.

Echono explained that TETFund’s National Research Fund has been expanded to encourage broader participation in research that addresses national development priorities. He stressed that universities, research institutions, and professionals in the built environment should focus on producing market-ready innovations that can transform Nigeria’s housing and construction industries.

According to him, Nigeria possesses abundant natural resources that can be converted into high-quality local building materials, reducing the industry’s dependence on imported products that are often affected by foreign exchange volatility and rising costs. He noted that strengthening local research would not only lower construction expenses but also create jobs, promote industrial development, and improve housing affordability.

The TETFund Executive Secretary also encouraged architects to collaborate more closely with researchers, universities, manufacturers, and government agencies to develop climate-responsive housing technologies suited to Nigeria’s environment. He said innovation should move beyond academic publications and be translated into commercially viable products and construction methods that directly benefit the housing sector.

Representatives of the Female Architects of Nigeria welcomed the call for stronger collaboration, noting that research and innovation remain essential to delivering affordable, resilient, and environmentally sustainable housing. The association also advocated increased support for research that addresses urbanisation, housing affordability, and sustainable building practices.

Housing experts believe that bridging Nigeria’s estimated housing deficit will require more than increased funding for construction. They argue that sustained investment in research, locally sourced materials, modern building technologies, and stronger partnerships between academia and industry will play a crucial role in reducing costs, improving construction quality, and accelerating housing delivery across the country.

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The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has called for research-driven solutions to address Nigeria’s growing housing deficit, urging architects, researchers, and academic institutions to develop innovative building technologies and locally sourced construction materials that can make housing more affordable and sustainable. The Fund said research and innovation are critical to transforming the country’s housing sector and reducing dependence on imported building materials.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Female Architects of Nigeria (FAN) to the TETFund headquarters in Abuja, Executive Secretary Arc. Sonny Echono said the Fund is committed to supporting research initiatives capable of delivering practical solutions to Nigeria’s housing challenges. He explained that TETFund’s National Research Fund has been expanded to support innovation beyond universities and other tertiary institutions, allowing broader participation in research that addresses national development priorities.

Echono expressed concern over Nigeria’s continued reliance on imported construction materials, noting that nearly 80 per cent of the building materials used in the country are sourced from abroad. He challenged architects and researchers to intensify efforts toward developing indigenous alternatives that are affordable, environmentally sustainable, and capable of strengthening local manufacturing while creating employment opportunities.

According to the TETFund boss, greater investment in research and innovation would help lower construction costs, improve housing quality, and promote climate-responsive building solutions suited to Nigeria’s environment. He added that translating research findings into commercial applications would strengthen the construction industry and contribute significantly to national economic development.

Echono also encouraged professionals within the built environment to take advantage of TETFund’s research funding opportunities and collaborate with universities, research institutes, and industry stakeholders to develop scalable housing solutions capable of addressing Nigeria’s estimated housing deficit.

Stakeholders believe that combining research, innovation, local material development, and stronger collaboration between academia and industry will accelerate affordable housing delivery, reduce import dependence, and improve the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s housing sector.

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The Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Arc. Sonny Echono, has called on female architects to take a leading role in addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit through research, innovation, and the development of locally sourced building materials. He said the built environment profession has a critical role to play in delivering affordable, climate-responsive, and sustainable housing solutions.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the leadership of Female Architects of Nigeria (FAN) to the TETFund headquarters in Abuja, Echono reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to supporting research that generates practical solutions to national development challenges. He explained that TETFund’s National Research Fund has been expanded to accommodate innovative research beyond tertiary institutions, creating opportunities for wider professional participation.

Echono expressed concern over Nigeria’s continued dependence on imported construction materials, noting that nearly 80 percent of building materials used in the country are sourced from abroad. He urged architects to champion research into locally available alternatives that can lower construction costs, create employment opportunities, and retain economic value within Nigeria.

According to him, increased investment in indigenous building materials would strengthen the construction industry, improve housing affordability, and reduce the nation’s exposure to foreign exchange fluctuations. He also encouraged professionals in the built environment to participate in TETFund-funded research initiatives and showcase innovative solutions at the upcoming National Research Fair scheduled to hold in Abuja.

Earlier, the Chairperson of Female Architects of Nigeria, Arc. Ene Agada, commended TETFund for its support for education, research, and capacity development. She said the association remains committed to advancing women’s participation in architecture while promoting sustainable housing delivery, environmental responsibility, and social inclusion. Agada also sought stronger collaboration between FAN and TETFund to drive innovation within Nigeria’s construction sector.

Industry stakeholders believe greater investment in research, local building materials, and professional collaboration will help reduce construction costs, improve housing delivery, and contribute to closing Nigeria’s growing housing deficit

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With student populations surging across Nigerian tertiary institutions, the struggle for decent accommodation has become one of the biggest challenges facing students nationwide. From universities to polytechnics, thousands of students battle yearly for limited bed spaces, forcing many to seek costly alternatives outside school campuses.

At the University of Lagos (UNILAG), with a student population exceeding 40,000, available hostel spaces remain far below demand. Only about 8,000 bed spaces exist, leaving many students scrambling for accommodation.

The situation is similar at Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech), where over 20,000 students compete for approximately 2,600 bed spaces. This year, the challenge became more difficult after one hostel containing around 1,000 bed spaces was shut down for renovation and upgrade works.

Across many Nigerian institutions, accommodation shortages continue to place pressure on students and parents alike. While private hostel developments have emerged around campuses, many students complain that rents remain beyond their reach.

To address the growing crisis, the Federal Government has launched an ambitious intervention programme through collaboration among the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), the Federal Ministry of Education, tertiary institutions, and private developers.

The initiative, expected to gulp about N250 billion this year alone, aims to deliver modern hostel facilities through partnerships designed to increase student housing capacity nationwide.

Speaking during groundbreaking ceremonies at Lagos State University (LASU) and Yabatech, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa explained that the projects would operate under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model.

According to him, the government has earmarked N100 billion to build 500-bed student hostels across more than 50 tertiary institutions.

He also disclosed plans for 24 Public-Private Partnership (PPP) hostels with capacities ranging between 1,200 and 1,500 bed spaces in selected institutions across the country.

Under the arrangement, TETFund will contribute N1 billion while private investors provide N3 billion for each project, bringing total funding per development to N4 billion.

The minister stated that the PPP initiative alone represents approximately N96 billion in investments.

Beyond that, government plans include another N1 billion allocation for hostel projects expected to provide at least 300 bed spaces in an additional 24 institutions.

Combined together, Alausa said the projects amount to roughly N250 billion in investments dedicated to delivering modern accommodation facilities.

He said:

“We are spending about N250 billion in 2026 alone to deliver world-class, high-standard student hostels across federal and state tertiary institutions.”

The minister noted that the government intends to fast-track implementation so students can begin benefiting as quickly as possible.

According to him, PPP hostels are expected to be completed within 24 months, while several other projects have delivery timelines of less than one year.

He further revealed that hostel expansion forms part of a broader presidential education agenda executed through TETFund.

The agenda also includes:

• Rehabilitation of existing hostels
• Upgrading lecture theatres and classrooms
• Construction of new learning facilities
• Rehabilitation of engineering workshops

During the ceremony for LASU’s proposed 1,500-bed hostel project, Alausa stressed that the new facility would meet international standards while helping reduce accommodation shortages.

The Vice Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, welcomed the intervention and described it as timely.

She noted that despite the institution having more than 85,000 students, available accommodation only serves about 7,000 students.

According to her, the new hostel will significantly improve student welfare, campus safety, and social interaction.

Student leaders also praised the intervention.

Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council, Lagos Axis, Quadri Ishola Odewunmi, commended both the Education Minister and Yabatech management for taking steps to improve student accommodation.

He described the projects as a practical response to one of the most pressing issues affecting Nigerian students.

Odewunmi further urged the government to extend reforms beyond student welfare by improving conditions for lecturers and non-academic staff, stressing that educational development requires a comprehensive approach.

As institutions continue to expand admissions and student populations grow, stakeholders believe the success of these projects could provide lasting relief to one of Nigeria’s biggest tertiary education challenges.

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Nigeria’s tertiary education sector is set for a major upgrade as the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) rolls out a N4 billion Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiative to address the long-standing student accommodation crisis.

The programme targets public universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, where overcrowded and deteriorating hostels have continued to affect students’ safety, wellbeing, and academic performance.

Federal Government backs initiative

The intervention is part of the Federal Government’s Special Programme, with approval from Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the 2026 Disbursement Guidelines.

The initiative specifically prioritises the construction of modern hostel facilities to meet rising demand for quality student housing across institutions.

PPP model to drive delivery

Under the arrangement, private investors will finance 75 percent of each project, while TETFund provides the remaining 25 percent as counterpart funding.

The projects will adopt a Design, Build, Finance, Maintain, Operate, and Transfer (DBFMOT) model, allowing investors to manage the hostels for 21 to 30 years before transferring ownership back to the institutions.

This structure is designed to combine private sector efficiency with public oversight, ensuring sustainability and long-term value.

Modern facilities for students

Each hostel is expected to deliver a minimum of 1,200 bed spaces for male and female students, with room configurations ranging from single to shared occupancy.

The facilities will also include essential amenities such as study areas, utilities, and recreational spaces to create a conducive learning environment.

Regulatory and investment requirements

Prospective investors must demonstrate strong financial and technical capacity, including a minimum equity contribution of N3 billion.

They are also required to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and comply with guidelines set by the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC).

Additionally, investors must establish a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) with beneficiary institutions and submit detailed project documentation, including architectural designs and cost breakdowns.

Economic and academic impact

Beyond improving accommodation, the initiative is expected to generate employment, stimulate local economies, and enhance campus living standards.

By providing safer and better-equipped hostels, students will be better positioned to focus on their studies, potentially improving academic outcomes and retention rates.

A shift in education infrastructure you

The programme represents a strategic shift in how Nigeria addresses infrastructure deficits in its education sector.

If successfully implemented, the project could serve as a model for future collaborations between public institutions and private investors, demonstrating how PPP frameworks can deliver critical infrastructure efficiently.

Applications for interested investors will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to approval by governing councils of participating institutions.

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The Federal Government, through Family Homes Funds Limited (FHFL), the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), and private investors, is spearheading the Renewed Hope Student Housing Programme to address the chronic shortage of accommodation in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

The initiative, launched under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aims to deliver 38,400 modern hostel bed spaces across 24 tertiary institutions; including 12 universities, six polytechnics, and six colleges of education. Each site will feature 1,600-bed hostels equipped with ensuite rooms, study areas, reading rooms, cafeterias, and essential amenities.

Pilot projects are already underway in six institutions, three in the North (Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, and FCT College of Education Zuba) and three in the South (Akwa Ibom State University, College of Education Warri, and Sikiru Adetona College of Education, Ogun). The hostels in Warri and Akwa Ibom are nearing completion and set for commissioning.

According to FHFL Managing Director, Abdul Mutallab Mukhtar, the upcoming commissioning marks a “landmark achievement” in transforming student welfare nationwide. He said the programme ensures that students “have the right environment to live and learn while reducing the risks of inadequate accommodation.”

With construction soon expanding to eight additional institutions, the project is expected to boost local economies, attract private investment, and provide safer, more conducive housing for students across all six geopolitical zones.

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Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, says it spends nearly ₦4 billion annually on electricity, a situation the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, described as crippling and unsustainable.

“The university spends close to ₦4 billion every year on energy. This figure is not only shocking but clearly unsustainable. It is crippling our operations and undermining our ability to deliver quality education and conduct meaningful research.”

Speaking at a press conference to mark ABU’s 63rd anniversary, Ahmed said the institution could no longer rely on the national grid, noting that it had begun transitioning to renewable energy to reduce costs and achieve stability.

“We have embarked on a renewable energy drive to achieve self-reliance. ABU is taking its destiny into its own hands while continuing to seek external support to sustain growth.”

He disclosed that the Federal Government had provided ₦1 billion through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to ease the university’s energy burden, while a 10-megawatt solar project had been approved to provide stable power. Members of the university’s alumni, particularly the SBS Class of 1975, are also supporting a solar-powered CBT centre.

Reflecting on ABU’s founding vision, Ahmed said the university was established in 1962 by the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello, to serve as a bridge of unity and progress.

“Sir Ahmadu Bello founded ABU to train the manpower required for the development of Northern Nigeria and, by extension, the whole country. He envisioned an institution rooted in service, excellence, and unity.”

He lamented that insecurity and poverty had slowed the North’s development, stressing that ABU would intensify research, agricultural innovation, and policy advocacy to address those challenges.

“Insecurity and poverty have undermined the North’s development and affected educational growth. ABU will intensify research, agricultural innovation, and policy advocacy to help restore hope and stability to our region.”

Ahmed said ABU remains the most resource-endowed agricultural research institution in West Africa, with facilities such as the Institute for Agricultural Research and the National Animal Production Research Institute.

“No other university in West Africa has the kind of agricultural research capacity we possess. We have the knowledge, the manpower, and the facilities to drive food security and rural development.”

He added that Times Higher Education ranked ABU as Nigeria’s best public university in 2025, with the institution securing over $20 million in international research grants and registering more than 30 patents.

“Funding remains a major challenge. We are therefore focusing on digital education, commercialising research, and nurturing start-ups from our innovations to make ABU more self-sustaining.”

The Vice Chancellor urged alumni to support their alma mater through endowments, donations, and mentorship.

“Our alumni are ABU’s greatest strength. The Sardauna gave you an opportunity; now it’s time to give back. You have the resources, the influence, and the talent to secure the future of this great university.”

As ABU celebrates its 63rd anniversary, Ahmed reaffirmed the university’s commitment to unity, service, and excellence.

“We have come a long way, but the journey continues. ABU will keep shining as a beacon of hope, knowledge, and national integration.”

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The initiative, announced during the inauguration of the Agricultural Commercial Farms Evaluation Committee, aims to enhance agricultural productivity, promote innovation, and strengthen food security through practical education.

Chairman of the TETFund Board of Trustees, Aminu Masari, who inaugurated the five-member committee in Abuja, said the project is intended to integrate modern agricultural technologies into Nigeria’s university system. He emphasised that selected institutions must meet defined eligibility criteria, including ownership of a minimum of 50 hectares of unencumbered land and the operation of a functional commercial farm tied to at least one agricultural value chain.

He further explained that universities considered must either be specialised agriculture-focused institutions or possess a strong Faculty of Agriculture to qualify for inclusion in the pilot phase.

“Out of the several institutions that have submitted their Expressions of Interest, only ten will benefit in this initial phase,” Masari stated, adding that the evaluation committee will ensure transparency and objectivity in the selection process.

He stressed the importance of agriculture to Nigeria’s socio-economic development, noting its potential to reduce poverty, create employment, and drive inclusive growth. He also called attention to the role of modern tools such as automation, precision farming, and data analytics in transforming agriculture, urging Nigerian institutions to adopt these practices for improved output.

Masari highlighted that TETFund has already made substantial investments in the sector, with eight of its 27 Centres of Excellence dedicated to agricultural research. Additionally, the Fund is financing agricultural research laboratories and demonstration farms in six universities to promote technology-driven training in crop and animal production.

The newly formed Evaluation Committee is chaired by Mr. Ewara Bassey, Director of the Federal Department of Agriculture under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. Its membership includes representatives from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Livestock Development, National Universities Commission, Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria, and TETFund’s Research & Development/Centres of Excellence Department.

The committee has been tasked with reviewing submissions from interested universities, developing evaluation templates, scoring proposals, and making recommendations that reflect Nigeria’s diverse geopolitical spread. A two-week deadline has been set for the submission of its final report.

Masari described the initiative as a strategic step towards national agricultural transformation and expressed confidence in the committee’s capacity to deliver.

In his response, the committee chairman, Mr. Bassey, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and affirmed the team’s commitment to professionalism and results.

“We consider this a national assignment and will work diligently to ensure our recommendations help lay the foundation for a sustainable, impactful agricultural future,” Bassey said.

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A Rising Talent Hub

Sonny Echono, the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), has stated that Nigeria is quickly becoming a global hub for skilled labor. He praised Nigeria’s education system for producing graduates who are now in demand worldwide.

Nigerian Graduates Making Waves

Echono emphasized that, despite challenges, Nigerian graduates are competitive in the global job market. Many now work for multinational companies while staying in Nigeria. This demonstrates that Nigeria’s skilled workforce is gaining international recognition.

Nigeria’s Advantage in a Changing World

Echono attributed Nigeria’s rise to the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. These policies have made Nigeria an attractive location for skilled labor. Many advanced nations face aging populations and a decline in birth rates. These countries need younger workers, and Nigeria’s educated youth are stepping up to meet this demand.

TETFund’s Contribution to Education

Echono also highlighted TETFund’s role in improving Nigeria’s education sector. The Fund has supported over 40,000 postgraduate students, both locally and abroad. TETFund is heavily investing in upgrading facilities at Nigerian universities to ensure they remain competitive and continue to meet the growing demand for education.

Efficient Resource Management

Echono assured the public that TETFund is managing its resources effectively despite the growing number of public tertiary institutions. The increase in education tax revenue enables the Fund to support more institutions without sacrificing quality. The management team ensures that all projects are completed on time and within budget to avoid the effects of inflation.

Looking Ahead to Legacy Projects

Echono dedicated the Education Icon award he received to President Tinubu, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa, and the entire TETFund team. He said this recognition would inspire them to push forward with legacy projects that will transform Nigeria’s universities. He also called on university management to provide full support to ensure the success of these projects.

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Now, in a renewed push, the Federal Government is set to resume work on the long-abandoned project in June. The approach will be phased to ensure steady progress.

Originally conceived in 1981, construction began in 2006 under former President Olusegun Obasanjo. The project had an initial budget of N8.9 billion with a 22-month completion timeline. However, work stalled in 2012, leaving the massive structure on Plot 35, Cadastral Business District in the Federal Capital Territory in a state of neglect.

During a recent inspection of the site, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, assured Nigerians that the Tinubu administration is committed to completing the project. He was accompanied by National Librarian, Prof. Chinwe Anunobi, senior directors from the Federal Ministry of Education, and project consultants. Although he did not provide a specific completion date, he confirmed that the initial focus would be on Basement Levels One and Two, the ground floor, first and second floors, and external works.

Alausa acknowledged that the cost of completion has risen significantly. Recent estimates suggest that it could require hundreds of billions of Naira. A few years ago, the contractor had quoted around N90 billion. However, the government is now implementing an innovative funding strategy to ensure progress.

To support this, President Tinubu has directed the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to release funds for the first phase of construction. While awaiting a final cost estimate from consultants, Alausa assured that there are sufficient funds to complete this phase. The government aims to ensure that the National Library fulfills its role as a vital educational and research hub.

The project was initially awarded to Reynolds Construction Company and was meant to be a symbol of Nigeria’s intellectual and academic heritage. However, years of neglect have turned it into a glaring example of failed infrastructure projects. Many Nigerians still question whether it will ever be completed.

Alausa’s announcement has rekindled hope, but skepticism remains high due to past unfulfilled promises. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this long-delayed initiative will finally be completed or become yet another unfinished government venture.

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