The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved ₦2 billion each as take off grants for two newly established tertiary institutions, Epe University and Tinubu Polytechnic.

Officials said the funding is intended to support the early operations of the institutions including administrative setup infrastructure development recruitment of academic staff and procurement of essential equipment.

Education authorities explained that the take off grants will help the schools begin academic and institutional activities while longer term funding and development plans are being prepared. The initiative forms part of the government’s effort to expand access to higher education and strengthen technical and professional training across the country.

The establishment of Epe University had earlier received presidential approval before a federal policy placed a temporary restriction on the creation of new tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

Government officials say the creation of the university and the polytechnic is expected to increase opportunities for students particularly in science technology and vocational education while also contributing to local economic growth.

Analysts say the take off funding signals the federal government’s intention to accelerate the development of the institutions so they can begin admitting students and providing academic programmes in the near future.