The Senate on Tuesday threw its weight behind a bill sponsored by Senator Jibrin Isah (Kogi East), popularly known as Echocho, seeking to convert the College of Education (COE), Ankpa, into a Federal University of Education.

The bill, SB. 716, titled “A Bill for an Act to Establish the Federal University of Education, Anpa,” passed second reading after gaining broad and passionate support from lawmakers who described it as both strategic and cost-effective.

Leading the debate, Senator Echocho argued that transforming the existing COE into a specialised university would strengthen Nigeria’s teacher training framework and help solve the chronic shortage of qualified educators across the country.

“This is not a new establishment,” he clarified. “It is a mature institution already affiliated with six universities and offering degree programs. What we seek is an upgrade that will empower it to offer postgraduate qualifications—master’s and PhDs—to raise a new class of professional educators.”

Senator Echocho framed the bill as a development tool. Quoting the National Policy on Education (1981), he emphasised that education remains the greatest investment a nation can make for fast-tracking its economic, political, and social advancement.

He described the Federal University of Education, Anpa, as a future hub for research, innovation, and teacher development, adding that it will “act as a catalyst for positive transformation” in the education sector.

Several senators took turns to back the bill, praising its purpose, timing, and practicality.

Senator Diket Plang underscored the vital role of teacher education, warning that no progress would be sustainable in specialised fields like technology or mining without properly trained teachers.

“We often talk about marine universities and tech hubs. But let’s not forget—without teachers, no profession can stand,” he said.

Senator Adamu Aliero added that the conversion of COE Ankpa will benefit not just Kogi State but the entire North Central region and beyond. He stressed that the proposal is cost-efficient, as the necessary infrastructure and academic programs are already in place.

Senator Professor Anthony Ani praised the bill’s inclusive ethos, noting that universities of education help professionalise the teaching force.

“This is not just about certificates,” Ani said. “It’s about ensuring that those who teach our children are trained to teach, not just people who drifted into the classroom.”

Echocho assured the Senate that the bill would not impose a financial burden on the federal government. In line with Senate Standing Order 76(3), the facilities required for the university already exist, allowing for a smooth transition without incurring major capital costs.

He called the proposal a smart investment that aligns with national development goals and addresses the education sector’s direct needs.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, noting the absence of any opposition, called for a voice vote.

“Those in support say ‘Aye’… The Ayes have it.”

The bill was subsequently referred to the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, which was directed to report back within six weeks.

If passed into law, the Federal University of Education, Anpa, could become a model for upgrading teacher training institutions—a move seen as urgent and necessary for revitalising Nigeria’s ailing education sector.